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BY ANTHONY OMOH
Liberian Immigration rescues Nigerians after a deadly maritime ordeal that left two dead, one missing, and eleven others severely injured. The incident, involving stowaways aboard the cargo vessel Ophelia Panama (IMO9228083), highlights the harrowing consequences of illegal migration and the desperation driving the so-called “Japa syndrome.”
The returnees, all young Nigerian men aged between 24 and 40, were received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on Thursday, October 6, 2022. They arrived on ASKY Airlines Flight KP062 at around 4:00 pm. Accompanying them was a nine-man delegation from the Liberia Immigration Service, led by Captain Mark J. Weaye, in what authorities described as a show of Pan-African solidarity.
The stowaways—identified as Seyi Popoola, Precious Uwalogho, Ayetimiyi Kelvin, Stephen Junior, Emmanuel Benjamin, Balogun Gbenga, Temiotan Adewale, Igiebor Stephen, Hamza John, Alfred Ese, and Ogechi Chika—were among a group of 14 men, including one Cameroonian. Tragically, only 11 Nigerians survived. Two Nigerians, Frank and Osas, died, while the Cameroonian’s fate remains unknown.
The journey began on Wednesday, September 7, 2022, around midnight. The young men reportedly used a small boat to reach Ophelia Panama at Tin Can Island Port, Apapa, Lagos. According to their accounts, they accessed the vessel through the rudder compartment, hiding with a few personal belongings and limited food supplies.
Their intention was simple: escape hardship in Nigeria and find better opportunities in Europe. But after five days at sea, their food depleted, they chose to reveal themselves to the ship’s crew in the hope of mercy and sustenance. That moment, however, marked the beginning of a terrifying experience.
Instead of receiving help, the crew allegedly subjected them to severe torture. Survivors said they were sprayed with chemical agents that burned their skin and were later forced off the ship in groups of three into the Atlantic Ocean.
Emmanuel Benjamin, 31, from Delta State, recounted their suffering. “I have been a mariner for seven years. After my boat caught fire, I struggled to survive with my family. I saw this chance to escape so my children could live better,” he said.
“We boarded from Nigerdock and entered through the rudder. After four days, our food finished. When we asked the crew for help, they sprayed us with chemicals. The burning was unbearable. Then they told us to jump into the sea.”
Miraculously, local fishermen off the Liberian coast discovered the survivors. The fishermen not only rescued them but provided first aid for their injuries. They then contacted the Liberia Immigration Service, who responded promptly and took charge of the stowaways.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, the Comptroller of Immigration, Murtala Muhammed Airport Command, *Comptroller Adeola Adesokan*, received the returnees. She directed that the men be profiled and documented by appropriate authorities. Temporary care, including feeding and medical evaluation, was also arranged.
Comptroller Adesokan condemned the actions of the crew aboard the Ophelia Panama, describing the events as barbaric and heartbreaking. She praised the Liberia Immigration Service for their humanitarian action, stressing that their response demonstrated true African brotherhood.
“This story is deeply disturbing. They were flushed with hot water, tortured, and thrown into the sea. We thank the Liberia Immigration for their timely intervention. Their action reflects the spirit of Pan-Africanism,” she said.
She further conveyed appreciation on behalf of the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Isah Jere Idris. “We appreciate the Commander General of Immigration for Liberia for their noble gesture. They helped our citizens when they were vulnerable and in need.”
This harrowing case of survival underscores the growing trend of irregular migration from Nigeria. Many young Nigerians, frustrated by unemployment, insecurity, and poor governance, continue to risk their lives in search of better prospects abroad. For many, the promise of a new life often turns into a nightmare on the high seas.
The Liberian Immigration rescues Nigerians operation serves as both a warning and a glimmer of hope. It is a warning about the danger of illegal maritime travel, and a hopeful reminder that cross-border cooperation and compassion still exist.
Authorities have promised a full investigation into the activities of the crew aboard Ophelia Panama. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Nigerian Navy have all been notified, with calls mounting for the ship’s operators to be held accountable.
As the rescued stowaways begin the long road to recovery, the focus now shifts to reintegration and psychosocial support. Advocacy groups are urging the Nigerian government to take more decisive action in addressing the root causes of irregular migration, especially among youth.
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