I Declined Submarine Expedition Invite – Nwoko Says As He Mourns Friend

Delta North Senator, Ned Nwoko, is grappling with immense sorrow following the untimely demise of his close friend and business partner, Hamish Harding. The duo, well-known for their shared passion for adventure, had embarked on a submarine expedition to explore the ruins of the legendary Titanic ship, but fate had a different plan.

Expressing his grief, Senator Nwoko revealed that he was originally invited to join the ill-fated trip, as he and Harding had previously undertaken an expedition to Antarctica together in 2020. The senator recounted Harding’s impressive achievements, mentioning his role as a Gulfstream pilot who set a Guinness World Record for circumnavigating the Earth. Harding’s spirit for exploration led him to descend into the Mariana Trench, and he even extended an invitation to Nwoko to join his space shuttle venture last year.

Tragically, Senator Nwoko’s commitment to his national duties prevented him from being part of the Titanic expedition. On his official Instagram account, he mournfully shared his last communication with Harding, which occurred just before the fatal journey. Harding had expressed his readiness to explore the Titanic wreckage, showcasing his unwavering enthusiasm for adventure and challenges.

The devastating incident claimed the lives of five individuals, including Hamish Harding and four other esteemed individuals. Among the casualties were Stockton Rush, the founder of OceanGate; Paul-Henri Nargeolet, a French diver renowned for his underwater explorations; Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood; and Dawood’s 19-year-old son, Suleman. After days of extensive search efforts, the United States Coast Guard confirmed their tragic deaths. The catastrophe unfolded when the small vessel transporting them to the historic site of the 111-year-old Titanic experienced a catastrophic implosion.

Senator Ned Nwoko expressed his deep condolences to Harding’s grieving wife, children, and loved ones, emphasizing that the loss of his dear friend and business partner leaves a profound void. The senator and Harding had also collaborated on various research initiatives aimed at eradicating malaria in Africa, a cause that Harding passionately supported and actively contributed to.

As news of this heartbreaking incident reverberates, the memory of Hamish Harding and his adventurous spirit will endure, while the loss of his invaluable experience and friendship will be deeply felt by those who knew him.