By Abel Johngold Orheruata, mnipr
Agbor, Delta State – In a remarkable show of humanitarian service, members of the Vito Corsica Deck (Aniocha/Oshimili and Ika Federal Constituencies) Chapter of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, visited the Agbor Correctional Facility on Friday, February 7, 2025. Led by their Chapter Cap’n, Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwaidei, the team provided much-needed relief materials and assessed ways to assist inmates, particularly those unjustly incarcerated.
Speaking to journalists after the visit, Comrade Nwaidei reaffirmed that the Pyrates Confraternity is a humanitarian organization composed of educated professionals committed to social justice.
“We are here to see the inmates, understand their challenges, and provide support. Our primary focus is to identify those who are unjustly detained and see how we can assist them. Additionally, we donated essential items to improve their living conditions,” he said.
On commitment to Legal Aid and Rehabilitation, and as part of their intervention, the Pyrates Confraternity took note of the facility’s pressing needs, particularly the deteriorating skill acquisition center.
“We’ve assessed the center and noted areas that require urgent attention. The legal team has also identified inmates in need of pro bono services, and we are committed to ensuring they receive proper legal representation,” Nwaidei added.
Also speaking, Chief Jude Obidi, Esq., head of the NAS Legal Team in Vito Corsica Deck, further elaborated on the association’s legal aid initiative under the Legal Aid and Criminal Reform Initiative (LACRI).
“Through LACRI, we provide free legal services to inmates nationwide. Today, we interviewed several inmates who lack legal representation, and our team will review their cases to determine those eligible for pro bono legal aid. Our goal is to ensure justice is served,” Obidi stated.
During the visit, the legal team and humanitarian volunteers highlighted the urgent need for government intervention, particularly in revamping the skill acquisition center within the correctional facility.
“The essence of a correctional facility is rehabilitation. If inmates are to be reintegrated into society as productive citizens, they must have access to skills training. Unfortunately, the skill center here is in a deplorable state. We call on the government and well-meaning individuals to support this facility,” Obidi urged.
The visit was met with appreciation from the inmates and the facility’s management. The Commander of the Agbor Correctional Facility commended the Pyrates Confraternity for their generosity and advocacy.
“We are grateful for your support and the legal aid initiative. We urge other organizations to follow your example,” he stated.
Many inmates also expressed joy and gratitude, acknowledging that the visit gave them renewed hope for justice and a better future.
The Pyrates Confraternity reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and pledged to continue its annual outreach programs, ensuring that both male and female inmates receive equal attention and assistance.
The Pyrates Confraternity’s intervention at Agbor Correctional Facility underscores the importance of humanitarian efforts in the justice system. As they champion the cause of the underserved, their message remains clear: justice, rehabilitation, and hope should be accessible to all.
They now call on the government, legal practitioners, and kind-hearted individuals to step forward in supporting prison reform, legal aid, and skill acquisition programs for inmates across Nigeria.