Mr. Ejiro Otarigho, a tanker driver, received a cheque of two million naira, a plaque, and a letter of commendation from the Delta State Government for his act of heroism and humanity in driving a burning tanker to a safe location after it exploded into an inferno last week in the state.
Mr. Otarigho was presented with the award by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Patrick Ukah, at the SSG’s office in Asaba.
Governor Okowa commended him for his rare display of patriotism, humanity, bravery, and heroism, noting that the incident would have killed many people and destroyed property in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, where the fire began.
He praised the tanker driver’s bravery, saying that Mr Otarigho had become the new face of Delta and Youth Ambassador as a result of his bravery, and that the state government would continue to celebrate him.
The Governor explained that what he did could not be measured in dollars, but that he should be aware that his actions were appreciated, and that he should not rest on his laurels, but rather continue to do his best for humanity.
Mr. Otarigho responded by thanking the state government for the gesture and stating that driving the burning tanker full of premium motor spirit away from a congested area was the best he could do at the time to save lives and property.
He thanked everyone for appreciating him and said that being appreciated by people, along with other accolades for his actions, demonstrated that doing good for the public would not be in vain.
In an interview, the driver’s wife thanked God for everything, saying that she was shocked at first when she heard the news, but that she admired her husband’s patriotism and heroism.
Mr. Emmanuel Amgbaduba, the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, and his Youth Development counterpart, Comrade Ifeanyi Egwuyenga, were among those present at the ceremony.