A Nigerian Naval officer has died during an operation to rescue 59 persons working from a dredging vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, at Okpobo Field near Okpobo River.

The officer, Lt Cdr Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who led the operation, died while attempting to rescue the occupants on board the vessel.

In a statement released, the Naval spokesman, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, said the Nigerian Navy on 30 July 2024 received a distress call from MV AMBIKA 4, a dredging vessel working at Okpobo field contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited.

He stated that the vessel was at risk of sinking near the Okpobo River entrance, an area known to be turbulent at this time of the year.

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BONNY subsequently deployed a Rescue Team comprising 10 armed personnel in two Interceptor Boats led by the Base Operations Officer, Lt. Cdr Gwaza, for the rescue operation.

Cdre Adams-Aliu explained that 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.

He added that 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, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza paid the supreme price,” he said

Cdre Adams-Aliu said the officer fell overboard accidentally during the rescue operation which lasted for about 10 hours from midnight of 29 July 2024 to 1000 hours on 30 July 2024.

“The Nigerian Navy deeply mourns the loss of Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who bravely risked his life to save others. His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered,” Adams-Aliu said in the statement