By Abel Johngold, MNIPR
Asaba came alive with a wave of activism as the Vito Corsica Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, in partnership with the Blizzard Deck (Boston and environs, USA), hit the streets in a bold march advocating for women’s rights, protection, and empowerment in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025.
The rally, which kicked off at 10 a.m. from the Vito Corsica Deck Anchor Point off Okpanam Road, was a spectacle of solidarity and purpose. Led by Deck Capoon, Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwaidei, the Seadogs made strategic stops to engage the public, distributing educational materials to motorists and pedestrians while driving home this year’s IWD theme: “Accelerate Action.” The message was clear—gender equality, dignity, and freedom for women must be pursued with urgency.
In a spontaneous show of support, several women who were driving along the rally route parked their cars and joined the march, swelling the ranks of demonstrators and amplifying the message of unity and action.
The event drew the participation of influential women’s organizations, including:
✅ Fifth/Fifty Action Women, led by Comrade Patricia Gbemudu and Comrade Eunice Emeyezia
✅ FIDA Delta (International Federation of Women Lawyers), represented by Barr. Ify
✅ Charity Aid Foundation for Women, spearheaded by Barr. Ikeatu Egondu Grace
Speaking during the rally, Comrade Nwaidei reaffirmed the Pyrates Confraternity’s unwavering commitment to gender justice, stating:
“Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide. Women should be honoured—not just today, but every day—because they have shaped societies, economies, and governance globally.”
He also took a hard stance on the pressing issues confronting women in Nigeria, highlighting the scourge of gender-based violence, underrepresentation in leadership, and inadequate maternal healthcare. He threw a direct challenge at policymakers, asking: “How many women are in the Delta State House of Assembly?”
With women comprising nearly half of Nigeria’s population yet falling far short of the 35% national gender policy target in governance, the rally underscored the urgency of inclusion in leadership, politics, and economic development.
As onlookers watched and participants marched through the heart of Asaba, one thing became clear—the fight for women’s rights is not just a campaign, but a responsibility that demands immediate action. The Pyrates Confraternity vowed to keep pushing for change, calling on all stakeholders to accelerate progress toward true gender equality.
