In recent times, the Association of Humble and Obedient Youths (AHOY), a non-governmental organization dedicated to humanitarian objectives, found itself at the center of unfounded allegations made by the National Association of Seadogs (NAS).
The NAS press release titled “National Association of Seadogs Disclaims any Affiliation with Impostor Group” issued on May 27, 2024, has compelled AHOY to address the misleading and defamatory claims aimed at tarnishing our reputation and independence.
First and foremost, it is crucial to emphasize that AHOY operates as an independent entity with no affiliations to NAS. Our organization is legally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Our mission is to promote social justice, equity, and humanitarian service, a mission that stands distinct from any political or other organizational influences.
The NAS press release alluded to a purported video they claimed to have seen, which allegedly implicates AHOY in identity theft. However, NAS failed to publish this video, making it impossible for us to address the allegations head-on. We categorically state that no such video exists in the public domain, and AHOY has not engaged in any activities that could be construed as identity theft.
To provide clarity on the issue of identity theft, Section 22 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition Prevention Etc.) Act 2015 defines it as impersonating another person to gain advantage or cause disadvantage. AHOY has not engaged in any such activities. Our documents and actions are transparent and lawful. None of our trustees are members of NAS, and we have not used their names for any form of solicitation or gain.
Our organization, registered on August 2, 2021, under registration number 162451, operates within the bounds of Nigerian law. We reiterate that AHOY is a distinct entity from NAS, with no intention to imitate or align with their association. Our commitment to humanitarian service has earned us various awards from numerous government agencies, a testament to our noble mission and achievements.
The defamatory remarks made by NAS in their press release are not only baseless but also damaging. As humble and obedient youths, we prioritize our service to humanity and will not engage in legal battles over these defamatory statements. However, we strongly advise NAS to retract their unguarded remarks to avoid potential legal consequences in the future.
The allegations by NAS appear to be an attempt to fabricate criminal elements into our legitimate activities. This effort to incite security agencies against AHOY is both laughable and futile. We stand firm in our fundamental right to freely associate, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Any attempts to undermine this right will be met with strong legal resistance.
AHOY remains committed to its mission of promoting social justice and serving humanity. We advise NAS to consult relevant legal precedents and understand the true meaning of identity theft before making unfounded accusations. Our organization will continue to operate with transparency and integrity, undeterred by baseless allegations.
We urge the public to exercise caution and seek thorough understanding before spreading misinformation. AHOY will remain vigilant in protecting its reputation and upholding the principles of justice and equity.
Signed,
Fashola Oladapo
Secretary General
Association of Humble and Obedient Youths
