Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan
Navy Nabs Fraudulent Shipping Agent, Clears Officers of Misconduct
The Nigerian Navy has arrested and handed over a suspected fraudulent shipping agent, Mr. Nsikak Sunday Ekpo, to the Nigeria Police Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The arrest followed a directive from Naval Headquarters after a complaint was received through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alleging that a sum of ₦400,000 was paid to Nigerian Navy personnel to provide security for Motor Vessel CHIMBA Express, a Cameroonian-registered vessel operating within the Calabar Channel.
The allegation stemmed from an incident on 22 December 2025, when personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY, NNS OSE, and Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA responded to a distress call involving a fire outbreak onboard the vessel. The swift and coordinated response of the Navy led to the successful rescue of both the vessel and its crew.
Subsequently, claims emerged alleging that naval personnel received payment for security services and later abandoned the vessel without a refund. However, a comprehensive investigation by the Nigerian Navy established that its personnel neither solicited nor received any payment, nor entered into any form of security arrangement with the vessel’s owners.
Further investigations revealed that Mr. Ekpo, an agent with PINAPAT Shipping Agency in Calabar, allegedly collected the sum under false pretence, claiming it was meant for Nigerian Navy personnel involved in the rescue operation.
The Nigerian Navy reiterates its unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and accountability, and affirms that it will continue to take decisive action against individuals or groups seeking to tarnish its image or exploit its operations for personal gain.
Core Reporters report that the suspect has since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further necessary action.
