The Marine Equipment Owners and Leasers Association of Nigeria (MEOLAN), has decried the rise in the rate of attack by suspected sea pirates on waterways in Rivers State.
It lamented that these unchecked criminal activities on the waterways pose a significant threat not only to the safety of marine operators but also to the nation’s economic landscape.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt yesterday, MEOLAN president, Chief Hope Kuku, highlighted the severe impact sea piracy has on their operations, stating that members are facing increasing harassment and violent extortion while crews have endured threats and have even been taken hostage and forced to pay ransoms for passage on waterways that are supposed to be secure.
Kuku stated that recent incidents, particularly in areas like Onne and Okujagu, have been alarming, with vessels being targeted relentlessly, raising fears over the safety of maritime trade and its implications for the economy.
He further stated that while the association ensured compliance with regulations set forth by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), these efforts are in vain if the underlying issue of piracy is left unaddressed.
The MEOLAN president warned that the integrity of their operations and the safety of their members remain at risk, necessitating immediate governmental intervention to secure the waterways.
Kuku argued that these routes, which belong to the government, should serve as safe passageways for legitimate trade rather than being overrun by criminals.
He called on the Rivers State government, Inspector General of Police, Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Brigade Commander of the 6th Amphibious Division, Bori Camp, Port Harcourt, and the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command to come to their aid.
The MEOLAN president emphasized that if marine services are forced to shut down, it could signal a much larger economic crisis, particularly impacting sectors such as oil production.
