By Barnabas Augustine
A perilous rescue operation was undertaken by the Nigerian Navy on the 29th and 30th of July, resulting in the tragic loss of a naval officer. The Navy's Forward Operating Base in Bonny successfully evacuated 59 crew members from the stricken dredging vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, which was in distress near the Opobo River.
The vessel, contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited, was engaged in dredging operations at the Opobo field when it encountered severe difficulties in the notoriously turbulent waters of the Opobo channel. The channel, which connects Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, is notorious for its rough seas, particularly during this time of year.
A naval spokesperson, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, revealed the harrowing details of the rescue mission on Friday in Abuja. Despite challenging conditions, a ten-person Navy team in two high-speed boats was dispatched to the scene. Reinforcements, including additional boats, aircraft, and drones, were subsequently deployed to support the operation.
Tragically, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Gwaza, the Base Operations Officer leading the rescue, perished during the ordeal. The Navy has lauded his bravery and sacrifice, describing him as a highly skilled combat diver who epitomised the dedication and courage of its personnel.
The rescue operation lasted for a gruelling ten hours, culminating in the safe evacuation of all 59 crew members. The Navy has expressed its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased officer.
Part of the press statement read:
“Accordingly, Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, 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.
“The Nigerian Navy deeply mourns the loss of Gwaza, who bravely risked his life to save others.
“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,”