The Nigerian Coast Guard has strongly criticized the recent arrest of nine of its members by the Nigerian Navy in Akwa Ibom State, labeling the action a violation of their fundamental rights and a setback to national maritime security efforts.

The arrests were carried out by operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area over allegations of involvement in illegal maritime activities.

In response, the Coast Guard described the action as unlawful and counterproductive to the government’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s waterways.

In a petition addressed to the Director, Navy Affairs Department at the Federal Ministry of Defence, and signed by Capt. O.E. Adeniran, the group expressed deep concern over the incident. The petition, also copied to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Senate Committee on Marine and Transport, and the Provisional Council for the proposed Nigerian Coast Guard, called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained personnel.

The Coast Guard emphasized that the bill for its formal establishment has already passed second reading in the Senate and is currently awaiting third reading – the final legislative step.

They urged the Nigerian Navy, as a disciplined institution dedicated to constitutional governance and national defense, to cease further interference in the affairs of the Coast Guard and to respect the ongoing legislative process.

Furthermore, the group demanded that relevant authorities investigate the actions of the Navy and ensure that those found culpable are held accountable.

“We believe the creation of the Nigerian Coast Guard will significantly strengthen maritime security and protect the lives and properties of citizens along our coastal regions. It is vital that all stakeholders support this initiative to ensure its success,” the petition stated.

In a separate statement, the Coast Guard argued that the arrest violated the rights of the individuals involved and disregarded principles of due process and the rule of law.

“The establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard is a legitimate national effort to enhance maritime safety and should be supported rather than obstructed,” the group said.

They further urged all branches of the armed forces to act with caution and uphold mutual respect, warning against further incidents that could threaten national unity and collaboration in the security sector.

“Let us join hands to uphold the rights of all citizens and emerging institutions that seek to operate within legal boundaries. A unified approach will help us build a stronger, more secure, and inclusive nation,” the statement added.

However, when contacted, the Director of Naval Information and spokesperson for the Nigerian Navy, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, referred journalists to an earlier statement. In it, the Commander of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Abubakar Umar, confirmed the arrests were based on credible intelligence indicating that the “Nigerian Coast Guard” was operating illegally.

He explained that the action was in line with a Federal Government Gazette dated August 28, 2013, and backed by provisions of the Criminal Code Act Cap. C38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The Constitution, he added, empowers the Navy to prevent the existence of unlawful maritime organisations.

“This operation is consistent with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, to secure the nation’s maritime domain and suppress illegal activities threatening national development,” Commodore Umar stated.

He warned the public against illegal organisations using deceptive means to recruit citizens and urged Nigerians to report such activities to law enforcement agencies. He also issued a stern warning to sea criminals including oil thieves, vandals, and pirates to desist from acts of sabotage against the country’s economy.