Two members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), three naval personnel, and a civilian have lost their lives after a Nigerian Navy gunboat capsized in the Escravos waterways, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday evening around 7 p.m., shortly after the personnel and civilians attended a medical outreach programme organised by the Navy in the Okerenkoko community. They were on their way to their hotel accommodation in the Arunton area when the mishap occurred.
According to a naval communication circulating within military channels, the gunboat—identified as NNS Delta Epenal DE 24—was carrying 15 people, including nine naval personnel and six civilians. The boat reportedly capsized in front of a Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) facility, at coordinates POS LAR 05, 36.408 N.
The Navy confirmed that a swift search and rescue operation led to the recovery of seven naval officers and five civilians. The survivors were rushed to a CNL medical facility for urgent medical attention. However, upon arrival, three naval personnel and three civilians, including the two NYSC members, were confirmed dead by medical officials on duty.
As of the time of filing this report, two naval personnel and one corps member remain missing. Search efforts are still ongoing, with more Navy resources reportedly deployed to the area.
The accident has sent shockwaves through both military and civilian communities. The identities of the deceased have not yet been officially released, but families of the victims have been notified.
The Nigerian Navy has yet to issue a formal public statement, though internal briefings suggest investigations into the cause of the accident are expected.