Fishermen in coastal communities of Mbo, Ibeno and Oron in Akwa Ibom State have raised the alarm over the incessant attacks on them by suspected pirates.The fishermen said the attacks had caused them loss of many property and other valuables, such as boats, outboard engine and fishing nets.
They urged both the state and federal governments to stop the activities of the pirates.Mr. Effiong Edet, a fisherman from Tom Shott Island, told journalists that the piracy, if not checked, would deny the fishermen and their families source of the livelihood.
Mr. Antai Asuquo Antai, who hails from Eyo-Abasi in Oron Local Government Area, said he relocated his family from Ikot Itie Idung Effiat to his home town because of the development, while Madam Eno Okpo Etim, a widow with nine children, said that she had been constantly harassed by the pirates.
The fishermen, however, urged the government to establish three Naval bases in Esin Ufot, Atabong- Okobo and Ibeno as well as strengthen the marine police so as to curb the piracy.
