The Nigerian Navy has confirmed that rescuing 59 persons from drowning in turbulent water in Opobo River, in Rivers state cost an Officer his life.
Director of Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, revealed thisbin a statement.
He said that on July 30, 2024, the Nigerian Navy received a distress call from MV AMBIKA 4, a dredging vessel working at Opobo field contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited.
He added the feedback indicated that the vessel was at risk of sinking near the Opobo River entrance, an area known to be turbulent at this time of the year, adding that the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BONNY deployed a rescue team comprising 10 armed personnel in two interceptor boats, led by the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, for the rescue operation.
It said 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.
According to the statement, another vessel, Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones and helicopters, and one Nigerian Air Force helicopter were deployed for the search-and-rescue mission.
It said all 59 crew were rescued successfully but the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, paid the supreme price.
