TheCable

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), better known as the Pyrates Confraternity, says it does not have a preferred candidate.

The association said this following a viral video where its members purportedly mocked Bola Tinubu, presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), over his alleged ill-health.

Also, a social media post suggested that Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), is a member of the group — but this has been debunked by his aide.

In a statement on Tuesday, Abiola Owoaje, on behalf of the confraternity, said his organisation does not mock people.

“It is an unfair characterisation and offends everything that we stand for. Indeed, this would cause offence to even our own members that are also, unfortunately, afflicted that this would never be condoned,” Owoaje said.

“We must stress that we are apolitical. As an organisation, we have never had a preferred candidate in any political elections including the upcoming 2023 general elections. We have members who belong to different political parties and are absolutely free to support any candidate of their choice.

“It is most unfortunate that political capital is being made of this with interpretations that are totally at variance with the philosophy of the Pyrates Confraternity. Unequivocally, we condemn this in very strong terms.

“We understand that political merchants desperately seeking media mileage are all over the place misinforming and twisting events to suit their political agenda. However, we wish to re-emphasise that the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is not supporting or backing any candidate for the office of the President or any other office in the 2023 general elections and beyond.

“We are determined to continue to use our social programmes, intellectual platforms and our compelling songs to advocate for good governance and accountability!”