Nigeria: Navy gunboat capsizes in Delta: 6 dead, 3 still missing

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

A Navy gunboat capsized in the Escravos waterways of Delta State, leading to the deaths of three naval personnel, two members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and a civilian. The tragic accident occurred Thursday evening in Warri South West Local Government Area, just hours after the Navy had concluded a medical outreach in the riverine community of Okerenkoko.

According to the Nigerian Navy, a total of 15 individuals—nine personnel and six civilians—were aboard the gunboat when it capsized near a Chevron facility around 7:00 p.m. The group was en route from Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos to a hotel in Arunton community.

A naval communication, currently in circulation, identified the ill-fated vessel as the NNS Delta Epenal gunboat DE 24. It confirmed that swift rescue efforts recovered seven naval personnel and five civilians. The survivors were taken to a nearby Chevron facility for emergency treatment. However, the Chief Medical Officer later confirmed the deaths of three naval personnel and three civilians, including the two corps members.

As of the time of reporting, two naval personnel and one corps member remain unaccounted for, and a search operation is ongoing to locate them.

This incident has sent shockwaves through the local and military communities, especially as the victims had taken part in the Navy’s outreach program earlier that day. It also reignites safety concerns surrounding water transport in Nigeria’s riverine areas.

Authorities have yet to release full details on the cause of the mishap, but an investigation is expected to follow once rescue operations conclude.