FOREIGN VESSEL CREW ACCUSED OF THROWING NIGERIAN STOWAWAYS OVERBOARD: CALLS FOR JUSTICE AND MARITIME REFORMS
By Amb. Dr. Godwin Ibiang JP, Public Relations Officer, Ports Facility Security Officers Forum of Nigeria (PFSOFON-NDMSA).
A disturbing maritime incident has sparked outrage after four Nigerian stowaways were allegedly thrown overboard by crew members of a foreign vessel in the Atlantic Ocean. The victims were fortunately rescued by a maritime logistics company owned by France-based Ekiti-born businessman, Mr. Harrison Niyi Alonge.
According to a report signed by Ambassador Dr. Godwin Ibiang JP, the Public Relations Officer of the Ports Facility Security Officers Forum of Nigeria (PFSOFON-NDMSA), the crew's actions were described as “heinous, inhumane, and a blatant violation of international laws and human rights.”
Amb. Ibiang emphasized that throwing stowaways overboard is a criminal offense under international maritime law and should not be tolerated under any circumstance.
Demands and Recommendations
The report urgently calls for:
1. The immediate arrest and prosecution of the vessel crew involved.
2. Legislative reforms to prevent future stowaway incidents.
3. Strengthening of maritime security cooperation among relevant stakeholders.
In addition, the report recommends:
Ratifying and enforcing international conventions protecting human rights at sea.
Training vessel crews on international human rights protocols.
Collaborative efforts between governments, maritime bodies, and stakeholders to address the root causes of stowaway migration.
Call to Action
Amb. Ibiang urged the Nigerian government to take swift action to investigate and prosecute those responsible. He also called for proactive measures to safeguard the lives of Nigerians at sea, stressing the need to address economic hardship and insecurity which continue to push young citizens into desperate migration routes.
The report was formally addressed to key national and international stakeholders including the Nigerian President, maritime agencies, defense institutions, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and civil society groups.
“We call on the Nigerian government and the global maritime community to prioritize the safety of Nigerian citizens and ensure this grave injustice is not repeated,” Amb. Ibiang stated.
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