The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has expressed profound sorrow over the recent loss of over 60 lives in stampedes during palliative distributions in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the NAS Cap’n, Dr. Joseph Oteri, described the tragic events as a stark reminder of the growing desperation and economic challenges faced by many Nigerians. The group emphasized that the incidents highlight the urgent need to address the widespread hunger and poverty affecting the country.
“While we acknowledge the government’s efforts to support vulnerable citizens through palliatives, it is clear that these initiatives have been undermined by poor planning, lack of coordination, and inadequate oversight,” the statement read.
The Pyrates Confraternity labeled the chaos that led to the fatalities as a “damning reflection of systemic failures” in tackling hunger and poverty. The association stressed that the escalating hunger crisis is a national emergency requiring immediate and decisive action.
“Failure to act will exacerbate the crisis, with dire social, economic, and political repercussions,” the group warned. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and demand that the government takes responsibility for this preventable tragedy. Hunger should not claim lives in a nation endowed with vast resources.”
The organization urged the government at all levels to prioritize sustainable solutions to the hunger crisis. It advocated for palliatives to be distributed in a manner that ensures the safety and dignity of beneficiaries.
“To avoid further tragedies, palliatives must be delivered through transparent and well-organized systems, involving community leaders and credible non-governmental organizations,” the group stated. “Beyond temporary measures, long-term strategies are essential to boost food production, support local farmers, and stabilize food prices.”
The Pyrates Confraternity also called for the scaling up of programs addressing the needs of the most vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of access to affordable healthcare, education, and social safety nets. It urged the government to fast-track policies that create jobs and enhance income-generating opportunities to reduce reliance on palliatives.
Highlighting its own initiatives, the association noted that two of its Edo State chapters recently conducted successful palliative programs. During these events, over 2,000 underprivileged individuals received food, with a strong focus on maintaining orderliness.
The Pyrates Confraternity concluded by urging the government to take proactive steps to ensure that every Nigerian can live with dignity, free from the scourge of hunger and poverty.
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