Wole Soyinka Defends Pyrates Confraternity, Says It Is Not a Secret Cult

Wole Soyinka has pushed back against claims that the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) is a secret cult, describing the group as a transparent organisation committed to humanitarian and advocacy work.

Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony of the group’s national secretariat at the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry complex, Soyinka said the association continues to face unfair public perception.

“The larger society still finds it difficult to accept the obvious, that this is not a secret cult,” he stated.

He attributed the situation to persistent misinformation, saying negative ideas are often difficult to dispel even when contradicted by evidence.

Advocacy and Growth Plans

Soyinka noted that the new secretariat would strengthen the group’s operations and expand its outreach programmes across the country.

He also criticised what he called selective scrutiny, where legitimate organisations are questioned while others operate without attention.

Stakeholders Speak

NAS Capoon Joseph Oteri said the project represents the consolidation of a long-held vision and will serve as a central hub for the organisation’s activities.

Chief Bassey Edem described NAS as a body committed to liberty, justice and service since its founding in 1952.

Meanwhile, Emeka Obegolu praised the group’s community interventions, while Olatunde Makanju called the project a major milestone.

Land donor Adesoji Adesugba urged timely completion of the secretariat, describing it as a symbol of the organisation’s enduring legacy.

Africans Angle News