The Nigerian Coast Guard has condemned the recent arrest of its members in Akwa Ibom State, describing the action as a violation of their rights.
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee at Ikot Abasi Local Council of Akwa Ibom State had arrested nine suspects over allegation of engaging in illegal maritime activities in the state.

The Coast Guard group, therefore, lamented that the actions of the Nigerian Navy are not only unlawful but also counterproductive to government’s efforts to improve security in our waterways.

In a petition to the Director of Navy Affairs Department at the Federal Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Olusegun Obasanjo Way, signed by Capt O.E.Adeniran, the Coast Guard noted that the bill for the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard had passed the second reading in the Senate and is awaiting the third reading, which is the final process.

In the petition, copied to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief of Defence Staff, Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine and Transport, Chairman of the Provisional Council of the proposed Nigeria Coast Guard, the Coast Guard called for the immediate and unconditional release of its members arrested by the Nigerian Navy.

They also callxed on the Nigerian Navy as a disciplined and regimented force committed to the supremacy of the constitution, defence of the sovereignty of and territorial integrity of the nation, as well as aid to civil authorities, to immediately cease and desist from these activities.

They also called on the relevant authorities to investigate these actions and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
“We believe that the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard will go a long way in improving the security of our waterways and ensuring the safety of our citizens. It is, therefore, imperative that all stakeholders must work together to make this a reality,” they stated.

Also, in a statement, the Coast Guard said the actions taken by the Nigerian Navy did not only violate the rights of the individuals involved but also undermine the principle of due process and respect for the rule of law.

“It is essential to emphasise that the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard is a legitimate endeavour aimed at enhancing maritime security and safeguarding the nation’s waters.”

“As we navigate through this unfortunate blunder, it is imperative for all branches of the armed forces to exercise prudence and ensure that such incidents do not recur. Respect for every individual’s freedom and the recognition of emerging organisations like the Nigerian Coast Guard are pivotal in fostering a harmonious and inclusive society.”

“Let us stand united in upholding the rights of all citizens to organise and operate within the bounds of the law, free from unwarranted suspicion or interference. Together, we can build a stronger and more resilient nation that honours the aspirations and endeavours of its people,” they stated.

When contacted, Director of Naval Information and official spokesperson for the Nigerian Navy, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, directed the reporter to an earlier publication where the Commander of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Abubarka Umar, confirmed the arrests, stating that it was based on credible intelligence reports regarding the illegal operation of a group known as the “Nigerian Coast Guard” on Saturday, July 19.

This arrest, Umar said, was an enforcement of the Federal Government Official Gazette signed on August 28, 2013, as enshrined in the Criminal Code Act. Cap. C38 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004. He added that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria also empowered the Nigerian Navy with the responsibility to ensure that such illegal organisations do not operate in the maritime environment.

“This is in furtherance of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral. Emmanuel Ogalla’s operational directive at ensuring our maritime domain is safe and secured from illegal activities to enhance socio-economic development of our nation,” he said.

He, therefore, called on the public to be aware of illegal organisations deceiving people using various tactics to recruit innocent citizens into an organisation that is not backed by the law.

Besides, he advised the people to report the activities of the group and other illegal entities masquerading as legitimate organisations to the law enforcement agencies.

Umar warned illegal bunkerers, crude oil thieves, pipeline vandals, sea robbers and other criminal elements operating in Nigerian waters to desist from their acts of economic sabotage.