News

Investigate Police’s Violent Crackdown On Peaceful Protesters, NAS Urges Tinubu

Published

1 year ago

August 6, 2024

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as Pyrates Confraternity, has expressed concern over the recent wave of violence and brutality that accompanied the #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria.

The association condemned the excessive use of force by security operatives against peaceful protesters and journalists, adding that the right to protest is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society, and its suppression through violence is both illegal and immoral.

Since the commencement of the protests on August 1, there have been alarming reports of police and security forces using excessive force against unarmed civilians.

These actions have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 13 lives and the brutalisation of numerous individuals, including no fewer than 31 journalists.

In his address earlier on Sunday, President Bola Tinubu condemned the violence and the destruction of property that has marred the protests, but NAS, in a statement on Monday by its Cap’n, Dr Joseph Oteri, said despite the largely peaceful nature of these protests in some parts of the country, reports indicate a disturbing pattern of violence and brutality inflicted by security operatives.

This statement was issued shortly after the 48th Supreme Pyrates Colloquium and the Annual General Meeting of NAS, which was held in Abeokuta, Ogun State from August 2 to 4.

The event, which was also used to celebrate the 90th birthday of one of its founders, Prof Wole Soyinka, also had a series of other activities including medical outreach for the less privileged with over 200 beneficiaries.

In the statement, the association wondered why President Tinubu did not use that opportunity to tell the nation how he intended to cut the cost of governance across the board with the one-month timeline given by the protesters.

Oteri said, “Yes, the President acknowledged those that were killed in the protest, we are, however, deeply concerned by his failure to explicitly denounce the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters by the police in several states, notably Abuja and Lagos.

“We, therefore, call on the President to institute an independent and transparent investigation into the killings and brutalisation of peaceful protesters and journalists. Those found responsible must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

“We reiterate our call for an end to the violence and for immediate actions to restore justice and uphold the principles of democracy.”

While noting that the National Association of Seadogs stands in solidarity with the brave Nigerians who are exercising their democratic rights to demand better governance, Oteri, however, condemned the wanton looting and destruction of property by hoodlums in some states.

News

Otuaro Felicitates Tompolo On Honorary Doctorate Award

Published

10 hours ago

December 2, 2025

Editor

Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro has congratulated High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, on the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate of Laws (LLD) by the E.K. Clark University.

Otuaro described the recognition as well-deserved and befitting, noting that Tompolo has, over the years, demonstrated uncommon commitment to the peace, progress, and stability of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

According to him, Tompolo’s role in sustaining peace in the region, particularly through his steadfast support for dialogue, community engagement, and nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution, has made a significant contribution to national security and economic stability.

He further noted that, beyond his contributions to peacebuilding, Tompolo has demonstrated extraordinary compassion, philanthropy, and devotion to humanitarian causes.

He added that his investments in youth empowerment stand as clear evidence of a man whose heart is truly with his people.

“Tompolo’s good heart, generosity, and love for humanity distinguish him as a leader of rare character,” Otuaro said.

The PAP Administrator commended E.K. Clark University for identifying and honouring a personality whose impact continues to resonate across the Niger Delta and beyond.

He urged other institutions to emulate such gestures that celebrate individuals advancing society through selfless service.

Dr Otuaro prayed for God’s continued guidance, long life, and strength for High Chief Ekpemupolo as he continues to serve the Niger Delta and Nigeria with dignity, wisdom, and compassion.

News

JUST IN: Defence Minister, Badaru Mohammed Resigns

Published

11 hours ago

December 1, 2025

Editor

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has resigned his appointment with immediate effect.

His resignation was contained in a letter addressed to President Tinubu and dated December 1.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed this on Monday.

The presidential spokesman said Abubakar resigned on health grounds.

News

Police Deny Opening Recruitment Portal, Warn Nigerians Against Fake Adverts

Published

12 hours ago

December 1, 2025

Editor

The Police Service Commission has debunked reports circulating on social media and several unofficial websites claiming that it has opened a portal for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force.

The Commission described the publications as fake, warning that they were created by fraudsters seeking to deceive and exploit unsuspecting Nigerians.

In a statement published on its official website on Monday, the PSC said it had not commenced any recruitment exercise.

“The general public is hereby informed that these publications are fake and entirely misleading.

“They are the handiwork of fraudsters attempting to exploit innocent citizens,” the Commission said.

It added that no recruitment portal had been opened by the Commission.

“There is currently no ongoing recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Police Service Commission has not opened any portal for such an exercise,” the statement added.

The PSC stressed that whenever recruitment begins, the announcement will be made strictly through authorised platforms.

According to the statement, official channels include advertisements in reputable national newspapers, announcements posted on the Commission’s verified website (www.psc.gov.ng), and formal press releases.

“We urge Nigerians to rely only on information published through these official channels.

“Any recruitment portal not listed on our website is fraudulent and should be reported to the police,” the commission said.

The PSC advised the public to ignore the fake recruitment claims to avoid falling victim to scams.

The PUNCH had reported that the Police Service Commission has cautioned Nigerians seeking a career in the Nigeria Police Force to beware of fake recruitment adverts circulating online, insisting that it has not yet commenced the 2025 recruitment exercise.