By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Navy has handed over two suspected stowaways rescued from a merchant vessel to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Lagos.
The handover was carried out on Monday, March 23, 2026, by Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT following the rescue of the suspects from MV Seapan Lahore.
The suspects were received by DSI Eneji Emmanuel Ochokpa of the Lagos Ports/Marine Command, Apapa.
According to the Navy, “For the purpose of clarity, a stowaway is a person who hides onboard a ship to travel secretly and illegally into another country without authorization.”
The suspects were discovered in the early hours of Thursday, March 19, 2026, during routine checks.
“They were discovered… hiding within the rudder compartment of the vessel during routine security checks by NNS BEECROFT personnel while the vessel was underway around Lagos Fairway Buoy,” the statement said.
The Navy added that the suspects were safely extracted and taken for preliminary investigation.
“Initial findings identified the suspects as Abdullahi Yakubu, 36 years old, (male) a repeat offender and Omoniyi Afotona, 25 years old, (male). Both individuals are believed to have gained unauthorised access to the vessel’s rudder compartment at Apapa Port prior to its departure,” the statement added.
The Navy warned against illegal migration through dangerous means.
“It is very important for parents, guardians and persons of authority within the society to educate young men and women that hiding onboard a ship to migrate from Nigeria is illegal and dangerous. Hence, Nigerian youths with migration aspirations should endeavor to use legal means of travel,” it stated.
The Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to maritime security.
“Finally, please note that NNS BEECROFT under my command, will continue to actualize the mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff… to deploy a highly motivated and professional naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing effectively to joint operations in defence of national sovereignty and maintaining internal stability,” he said.