A Mission of Hope Turns to Grief
What began as a day of compassion and service in Delta State ended in heartbreaking tragedy, as six lives were lost—including three Nigerian Navy personnel and three civilians—when a Navy gunboat capsized on Thursday evening, July 3, 2025.
The boat had just left Okerenkoko, Warri South-West LGA, where the Navy, in partnership with the EMT Foundation, had hosted a free medical outreach. For many locals, it was a rare opportunity to receive healthcare—until tragedy struck.
A Fateful Journey That Never Ended
The vessel, EPENAL Gunboat DE 24, was carrying 15 people—nine Navy personnel and six civilians, among them three NYSC members. They were returning from the outreach’s first day, headed toward a hotel in Arunton community when, around 7:45 p.m., the boat sank.
The location, chillingly close to Chevron’s Escravos facility, is now a sombre point on the map: LAT 05° 36.408’N / LONG 005° 11.982’E.
Victims Identified, Grief Deepens
Despite prompt action by a Navy search and rescue team, six people were confirmed dead at the Chevron clinic nearby. Their names now etched into a community’s memory:
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Commander JO Eidangbe
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Petty Officer Abolarinwa
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Ordinary Seaman Tena
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Miss Chinenye (NYSC member)
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Miss Dorcas (NYSC member)
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Master Destiny, the boat’s civilian driver
Still Missing, Still Hoped For
As of Friday evening, three more individuals remain unaccounted for:
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Lieutenant DK Nehemiah
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Sub-Lieutenant Kwala
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Miss Uche (NYSC member)
Navy divers have continued combing the waters. As every minute passes, families and colleagues wait in anxious silence, hoping for a miracle.
A Mission Bigger Than Uniforms
Despite the tragedy, the outreach programme continued on Friday, albeit in a subdued mood. Speaking on behalf of Commodore Abdulazeez Zubairu, Navy Captain Ayi Archibong reminded residents of the Navy’s duty to both protect and serve.
“The Nigerian Navy has the constitutional responsibility to ensure security across the country’s maritime environment… and also build positive relationships with civilians through initiatives like this,” he said.
The outreach, part of Operation Delta Sanity II, delivered medical services to hundreds who had braved the rains—many unaware of the tragedy that had just unfolded.
A Community’s Gratitude Amid Sorrow
In the midst of mourning, the people of Okerenkoko showed resilience and appreciation. Pastor Christmas Ikare James, assistant community secretary, expressed the community’s gratitude even as his voice trembled:
“We’re deeply grateful to the Navy. At a time like this, when basic healthcare is beyond the reach of many, this outreach means a lot to our people,” he said.
Gone But Not Forgotten
While the Navy is yet to issue a formal statement, the silence has not stopped the grief. Six families have been shattered. Three others still pray for good news. And a community is left to reconcile a selfless act of service with the cruel hand of fate.
In the coming days, answers may come. But for now, Delta State—and the Nigerian Navy—mourns its heroes.
