PRESS STATEMENT
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is outraged and deeply pained by the continued orgy of violence and bloodletting that has once again erupted in Benue State, where armed marauders, widely reported to be Fulani herders, have laid siege to communities, leaving in their wake death, destruction, and displacements.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, the association said it was in solidarity with the traumatised and bereaved families of Yelewata and other communities who are victims of this senseless carnage.
The statement read, “It is unconscionable that in the year 2025, entire communities in Nigeria still live under the shadow of fear, unable to sleep, farm, or assemble freely, because their lives are constantly under threat from well-armed killers who operate with brazen impunity.
“Reports of the recent massacre in Yelewata, with over 100 lives reportedly lost, should shake the conscience of every Nigerian and spur the government into decisive, responsible action. Tragically, that has not been the case.
“We strongly condemn not only the heinous acts of violence committed against innocent villagers but also the lukewarm response of the authorities whose duty it is to protect lives and property.”
While we acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to security chiefs and the deployment of Special Forces to Benue State, the National Association of Seadogs emphasised that these actions must not become yet another reactive gesture that fizzles out once the media spotlight fades.
“This must mark the beginning of a sustained, coordinated, and transparent security strategy to end this national shame,” it added.
According to NAS, equally disturbing is the divisive rhetoric coming from some quarters of government, particularly the attempt by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to blame victims for their misfortune by insinuating internal collaboration with attackers.
“This unfortunate narrative only deepens mistrust, polarises communities, and diverts attention from the real threat, armed bandits masquerading as herders, terrorising citizens, and threatening national unity,” it said.
As a way forward, the association urged the Federal Government to establish a hybrid task force comprising the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Police, and trained community protection volunteers.
“This force must be rooted in local intelligence, equipped with technology, and mandated to dislodge armed militias and secure borders around Benue and adjoining states,” it said.
In the same vein, NAS tasked the Federal Government to prosecute perpetrators and sponsors of this extreme violence.
“The cycle of impunity must be broken. The security forces must go beyond chasing shadows; they must identify, apprehend, and prosecute the masterminds, financiers, and armed field operatives behind these attacks. Justice must not only be done but seen to be done,” NAS said.
The organisation also urged the federal government to convene a national summit to resolve the protracted conflict between farmers and pastoralists once and for all.
“This must include the urgent adoption of ranching policies, prohibition of open grazing in vulnerable areas, and provision of support systems for livestock management.
“Thousands have been displaced and are now at the mercy of hunger, trauma, and hopelessness. A special humanitarian intervention should be mobilised by NEMA and donor agencies to provide food, shelter, and psychosocial support for displaced persons in Benue.
“As a people united by a common identity and as an organisation driven by the ethos of justice and human dignity, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) demands a definitive end to the bloodletting. We require leadership, not platitudes. We demand accountability, not blame games. We demand action, not condolence letters.
“To the grieving people of Benue, we send our heartfelt condolences and unyielding solidarity. Your pain is our pain. Your struggle is our cause,” it added.
Dr. Joseph Oteri
Cap’n, National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity)
17th June, 2025
