The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has called on Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process, reject vote buying and demand greater accountability from political leaders as the world marks International Day of Democracy.
In a statement signed by its NAS Cap’n, Dr. Charles Meribole, the association reaffirmed its commitment to popular participation, inclusion, human rights, accountability and responsible governance.
The statement highlighted this year’s theme, “Raising Hands and Voices – Fostering Agency and Ownership through Deliberative Democracy,” describing it as particularly relevant to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to the association, democracy is fundamentally about citizens participating in decisions that affect their lives and ensuring that governance delivers meaningful improvements to the people.
Democracy Beyond Elections
Reflecting on Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the association acknowledged the country’s uninterrupted democratic experience spanning more than two decades.
However, it cautioned that the continuity of civilian rule should not be mistaken for a fully matured democracy.
“Democracy is more than periodic elections,” the statement noted, stressing the importance of continuous citizen participation, accountability and institutions that serve the public interest.
The association expressed concern that political parties in Nigeria have increasingly functioned as vehicles for gaining political power rather than platforms for ideological debate, civic engagement and the development of policies that reflect citizens’ interests.
It warned that this trend could encourage undemocratic practices and weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.
2027 Elections: Call for Credibility and Transparency
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, the National Association of Seadogs urged all stakeholders to work towards an electoral process that is credible, transparent and inclusive.
The association called on political parties, candidates, election officials, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations and citizens to ensure that every legitimate vote counts and that voters can participate without fear, intimidation or manipulation.
It also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain its independence, ensure a level playing field for all political parties and demonstrate impartiality throughout the electoral process.
According to the association, the credibility of an election depends not only on who wins but also on whether citizens and political stakeholders can trust the process through which the winners emerged.
Lessons from the 2023 Elections
The statement further drew attention to the challenges surrounding electoral technology during the 2023 general elections, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the electronic transmission and viewing of results.
It urged INEC to ensure that all technological systems deployed for the 2027 elections are thoroughly and independently tested before use.
The association also called for reliable infrastructure, trained personnel, effective backup arrangements and clear contingency plans to address possible technological failures.
It maintained that election results must be transmitted, collated and published in a manner that allows Nigerians and political stakeholders to independently verify them.
“Technology must strengthen democracy, not become a source of uncertainty,” the statement emphasised.
Vote Buying Threatens Democracy
The National Association of Seadogs described vote buying as one of the major threats to Nigeria’s democratic development.
It expressed concern that money has increasingly become a determining factor in the electoral process, arguing that the practice undermines the free will of voters, entrenches corruption and weakens democratic institutions.
The association urged Nigerians to reject the sale of their votes and recognise the long-term consequences of allowing financial inducements to determine electoral choices.
It also warned citizens against allowing politicians to influence their decisions through fear, misinformation, ethnic or religious sentiments and empty promises.
Citizens Must Raise Their Voices
The association encouraged Nigerians to become active participants in governance rather than passive spectators.
It urged citizens to scrutinise candidates, examine their records, ask questions, participate in political discussions and demand accountability from elected representatives.
It further reminded Nigerians that the power to choose leaders comes with the responsibility to make informed decisions and protect the integrity of their votes.
Young Nigerians and first-time voters were particularly encouraged to recognise their role in shaping the country’s future.
The association stated that the voices of young people must influence not only political campaigns but also the policies and decisions that determine their future.
Call for Civic Education and Public Participation
The National Association of Seadogs also called on the media and civil society organisations to strengthen civic education, fact-checking, voter information and public scrutiny of the electoral process.
It urged Nigerians not to surrender their democratic power to apathy, stressing that the future of the country cannot be left exclusively to politicians.
The association concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria’s democratic journey, despite its imperfections, remains worth defending and strengthening.
It called on citizens to stand up, speak up and take responsibility for protecting democracy and making governance work better for the people.
Signed:
Dr. Charles Meribole
NAS Cap’n
Abuja
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