The Nigerian Navy has said that it lost one of its officers during a rescue operation where they successfully rescued 59 people from the dredging vessel MV AMBIKA 4 at the Okpobo field near the Okpobo River.
This was confirmed by Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
Adams-Aliu noted that the area is particularly treacherous this time of year, which led to the tragic loss of Lieutenant-Commander Gideon Gwaza during the operation.
The dredging vessel, under contract with Sterling Global Oil Limited, was in imminent danger of sinking near the river’s entrance.
In response, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Bonny deployed a rescue team of 10 armed personnel in two interceptor boats, led by the Base Operations Officer.
The rescue mission faced significant challenges due to rough seas, leading to the deployment of an additional squadron of three boats for support.
Further assistance came from the Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, Nigerian Navy helicopters, and a Nigerian Air Force helicopter.
Despite the difficulties, all 59 crew members were successfully rescued, although the Base Operations Officer, Gwaza, tragically fell overboard and did not survive. The operation lasted about 10 hours, from midnight on July 29 to 10 a.m. on July 30.
Adams-Aliu expressed deep sorrow over Gwaza’s death, highlighting his bravery and the inherent risks faced by Navy personnel.
“Lieutenant-Commander Gwaza’s sacrifice will be remembered as a testament to the courage and dedication of those who serve in the Nigerian Navy,” he added.
