Williams Akpan, Calabar
The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has intensified its campaign against cybercrime and drug abuse by taking its awareness programme to secondary schools in Calabar, urging students to embrace responsible behaviour and reject criminal activities.
The sensitisation exercise was held at the West Africa People Institute (WAPI) and Trinity College, Calabar, where students, teachers and other stakeholders were educated on the dangers of internet fraud and substance abuse.
Speaking during the event, the Capoon of Jokaina Deck, Lawrence Achuta, said the campaign was aimed at equipping young people with the knowledge needed to resist social vices and make responsible life choices.
Achuta said, “The Pyrates Confraternity is a civil organisation with the aim of adding value to the young, the old and the entire well-being of humanity.”
Achuta appealed to parents, guardians, religious leaders and other community stakeholders to play active roles in guiding children away from criminal behaviour, stressing that the fight against cybercrime and drug abuse requires collective action.
He warned students against engaging in internet fraud and substance abuse, saying, “Cybercrime and drug abuse expose victims to financial crises, identity theft, addiction and mental health problems.”
Resource persons, including Dr. Ahena Bassey of the University of Calabar, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics Eyo Okon, and Director of Safe Schools and Nutrition in the Cross River State Ministry of Education, Ayei Okoi Ewa, commended the initiative and encouraged students to remain law-abiding.
The experts observed that young people remain highly vulnerable to cybercrime and drug abuse, noting that online scams such as phishing continue to threaten individuals and organisations.
They stressed that sustained public enlightenment remains one of the most effective tools for prevention.
Students who participated in the programme described the exercise as enlightening.
Trinity College student Tolu Ogunola and WAPI Senior Prefect, Precious Effiong Obo, said, “The sensitisation awareness has enlightened us on the effects of cybercrime and drug abuse in society.”
The event concluded with the presentation of educational materials to participating schools and a goodwill message by the Vice Principal of WAPI, Bassey Ekei Adim, who commended the organisers for promoting values capable of shaping responsible future leaders.
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