The Nigerian Navy (NN) has reported a ‘brave’ rescue operation by its Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny, disclosing that 59 persons were rescued from a dredging vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, working at Okpobo field near Okpobo River, which was reportedly sinking.
In a statement today (Friday, August 9) in Abuja, the FCT, the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said Navy, however, lost an officer, Lt.-Commander Gideon Gwaza, in the operation, saying the area was known to be turbulent at this time of the year, according to a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report.
He said that the dredging vessel was working at Okpobo field contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited.
According to him, it was reported that the vessel was at the risk of sinking near Okpobo River entrance, an area known to be turbulent at this time of the year.
“Accordingly, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Bonny, deployed a Rescue Team comprising 10 armed personnel in two Interceptor Boats led by the Base Operations Officer for the rescue operation.
“Attempts to approach the distressed vessel proved challenging due to the force of the waves, and another squadron of three boats was dispatched to reinforce the rescue team.
“Additionally, another vessel, Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, Nigerian Navy Helicopters, and one Nigerian Airforce helicopter were deployed for the Search and Rescue mission.
“Eventually, all 59 crew were rescued successfully but the Base Operations Officer, Gwaza paid the supreme price,” Adams-Aliu said.
The Naval spokesman said the deceased officer fell overboard accidentally during the rescue operation which lasted for about 10 hours from midnight of July 29 to 1000 hours on July 30.
“The Nigerian Navy deeply mourns the loss of Gwaza, who bravely risked his life to save others,” Adams-Aliu said.
“He was a well- trained combat diver whose painful death reflects the risks and sacrifices of Nigerian Navy personnel towards the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered,” he added.”
