Navy arrests two stowaways off Lagos coast
The Nigerian Navy has arrested two suspected stowaways from a foreign merchant vessel off the Lagos coast for attempting to leave the country illegally. The suspects, Abdullahi Yakubu, 36, and
- By Precious Igbonwelundu
The Nigerian Navy has arrested two suspected stowaways from a foreign merchant vessel off the Lagos coast for attempting to leave the country illegally.
The suspects, Abdullahi Yakubu, 36, and Omoniyi Afotona, 25, arrested on March 19 by operatives of the NNS BEECROFT, were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) at Apapa, yesterday.
Handing over the suspects, Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said they were found inside the rudder compartment of MV Seaspan Lahore during routine security checks near the Lagos Fairway Buoy.
Adams-Aliu said preliminary findings indicated the men illegally boarded the vessel at Apapa Port in an attempt to travel abroad undetected.
He described stowing away as illegal and life-threatening, urging families and community leaders to sensitise youths on the dangers of irregular migration.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain in line with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
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Adams-Aliu said one of the suspects was discovered to be a repeat offender, warning that the NN would not tolerate any kind of illegality in the waterways.
Receiving the suspects, Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Emmanuel Ochokpa Eneji, attached to the Lagos Ports Marine Command, said they would be profiled, documented, and handed over to the police for prosecution.
Abdullahi, who admitted he was a repeat offender, said he was desperate to move to Spain to go and eke out a living.
According to him, he attempted to stowaway about a year ago but was arrested, adding that he decided to try for the second time.
He said he chose the route because he lacks the funds needed for lawful migration, adding that he only paid a token to some fishermen who helped him board the vessel.
