On the occasion of the 64th independence anniversary, the National Association of Seadogs (also known as Pyrates Confraternity) has charged the Federal Government to take immediate economic action to alleviate Nigerians’ suffering, particularly the rising hunger in the land.

The group also emphasised the need for President Bola Tinubu to tackle the pervasive insecurity, poverty, bad roads and out-of-school children crises in the country.

In an Independence Day message, titled “Nigeria@64: Walking on Tightrope,” NAS, through its Capon, Dr Joseph Oteri, warned that the worsening economic conditions could trigger social unrest if left unaddressed.

He cautioned that arresting protesters and charging them with terrorism is not the solution to the problem. A statement noted that celebrations have become more muted, with Nigerians growing indifferent to the festivities.

It added that as promises of progress remain unfulfilled, disillusionment has given way. He said: “Poverty is at alarming levels, with 133 million Nigerians, over 60 per cent of the population, living in multi-dimensional poverty, lacking access to essential services like healthcare, education, and housing. This highlights the failure of economic policies to safeguard the most vulnerable.”