The Nigerian Coast Guard has strongly condemned the recent arrest of its members by the Nigerian Navy in Akwa Ibom State, describing the action as a violation of their rights and a threat to ongoing efforts to improve maritime security.
Nine individuals alleged to be Coast Guard operatives were detained by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area over alleged involvement in illegal maritime activities.
In a formal petition addressed to the Director of Navy Affairs Department at the Federal Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja, and signed by Capt. O.E. Adeniran, the Nigerian Coast Guard demanded the immediate and unconditional release of its detained members. The petition was also copied to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine and Transport, and the Provisional Council of the proposed Nigerian Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard maintained that its establishment is backed by legislative progress, noting that a bill for its creation has already passed second reading in the Senate and is awaiting final consideration.
According to the petition, “The actions of the Nigerian Navy are not only unlawful but counterproductive to government efforts to secure our waterways. The continued harassment of Coast Guard personnel undermines collaboration and weakens national security.”
The group urged the Nigerian Navy to cease all hostilities against its members and called for a thorough investigation into the arrests, with a view to holding those responsible accountable.
In a separate public statement, the Coast Guard emphasised that the arrests violated the rights of those involved and flouted the principles of due process and rule of law.
“The creation of the Nigerian Coast Guard is a legitimate and vital initiative aimed at strengthening maritime security and protecting the nation’s coastal interests,” the statement read. “We call on all stakeholders to support this process rather than engage in acts that hinder progress.”
The Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to working with other security agencies to promote safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways, but warned that arbitrary actions and inter-agency rivalry would only derail national objectives.
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