The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as Pyrates Confraternity, in collaboration with the Legal Assistance and Citizens Rights Initiative (LACRI), has successfully facilitated the release of seven inmates from the Auchi Medium Security Correctional Centre.
The inmates were released on Tuesday with support from six NAS chapters: Arabella Deck – Benin Metropolis 2, Benbow Deck – Benin Metropolis, Hybrid Deck – Edo North, Americana 1 Deck – Houston, Texas, Longhorn Deck – Dallas, Texas, and Atlantis Deck – Atlanta, Georgia.
According to Dirisu Odion, NAS Regional Vice President for Region 3 (Edo, Ekiti, and Ondo), the release was part of the organisation’s humanitarian efforts.
“We identified ten inmates who couldn’t afford to pay their fines. With LACRI’s collaboration, we raised funds to secure the release of seven inmates today,” Odion stated.
Christopher Ikponwonsa, Capoon of the Hybrid Deck, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to humanistic services for the less privileged. Both Odion and Ikponwonsa advised the released inmates to refrain from future crimes.
Barrister Mahmud Garuba of LACRI highlighted the organisation’s provision of free legal services for individuals charged with criminal offences.
“We focus on assisting those convicted with minimal fines who have spent time in prison,” Garuba explained. He urged other NGOs to support their efforts in releasing prisoners.
The released inmates expressed gratitude to NAS and LACRI. Onaivi Adeche, who was convicted for two years with an option of a fine, said, “God will bless these associations for helping me in my time of need.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
