By Seyi Odewale
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has expressed deep concern over how the National Assembly purportedly affirmed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The association, in a statement yesterday by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, noted that the use of the ‘ayes and nays’ voice vote mechanism, rather than a transparent, recorded vote, raises serious questions about due process, democratic accountability, and the intent behind this critical decision.
NAS said a matter as weighty as the imposition of emergency rule, which directly affects millions of Nigerians’ lives, rights, and governance, should not be subjected to a hasty, opaque process.
The statement read, “The National Assembly has a constitutional duty to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are reached through proper debate, individual voting, and public scrutiny.
“It is unacceptable that such an important resolution could be decided through a mere chorus of voices, leaving room for ambiguity and manipulation.”
The association urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his decision, citing the nation’s fundamental democratic principles as the basis.
“The President should also ensure that he is fair to the two parties involved in the Rivers crisis. The resort to emergency rule risks escalating tensions rather than resolving the ongoing political crisis,” the statement noted.
NAS also charged elders of the Niger Delta region to take urgent steps to resolve the political impasse in Rivers State.
“Instead of an emergency declaration, we call upon the elders and respected stakeholders of the state to rise to the occasion and initiate genuine reconciliation among all warring factions.
“Political actors must set aside their differences and prioritise the state’s peace, stability, and development. Dialogue, not forceful interventions, remains the most effective tool for conflict resolution in a democracy.
“The National Association of Seadogs remains committed to justice, the rule of law, and democratic accountability. We stand firmly against any attempt to undermine the democratic will of the people under the guise of emergency governance.
“Nigeria must not be pushed down a path that erodes its hard-earned democratic values. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organisations, and the international community to closely monitor this situation and insist on a democratic resolution that respects the people’s will,” the statement noted.
