By Victoria Onehi
Delta State Government has given the sum of of 2 million Naira to Ejiro Otarigho, the petrol tanker driver who drove his burning vehicle filled with Petroleum Motor Spirit, PMS, to a safer place, before it exploded and burnt completely in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area.
The Secretary to the State Government, Patrick Ukah, who stood in on behalf of Governor Okowa, in Asaba, said Ejiro’s bravely saved the state from what would have resulted in the death of many persons and the destruction of property, thereby throwing the state into mourning.
Ejiro, the man who was being celebrated by his people, and indeed Nigerians, for exhibiting uncommon bravery, arrived with his pregnant wife and some of his relatives, at the invitation of the Delta State Government.
Patrick Ukah, on behalf of Governor Okowa, presented him a cheque of 2 million Naira, a Letter of Commendation and a plaque, which the government said, will serve as a memorial to Ejiro’s children and generations unborn.
Ukah also extended the state government’s appreciation to his wife, for being supportive, which made Ejiro have a coordinated mind, to think critically, in the face of what would have ended up in a calamity.
Ejiro, the man of the moment, and his wife expressed their surprise, at how his singular action, has generated something that is beyond them.
Meanwhile, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Engr. Jaji O. Abdulganiyu, MiFire.E. MNSE, has commended the bravery and herioc intervention shown by Mr. Ejiro Agharigho.
The Controller-General also noted the fire would have consumed the area and caused untold damage to lives and properties but for Mr Ejiro’s uncommon fearlessness and promptness in driving away the burning truck not regarding the risk to his life.
The CGF in a Statement by the Federal Fire Service NPRO ,ACF Paul Abraham described Ejieos’ act of ultimate heroism and one that should be celebrated by all.
“On behalf of Men of the Federal Fire Service and Nigerians in general, I commend Mr. Ejiro for his heroic act and aptness in forestalling a major fire disaster from happening” said the CGF.
He also thanked Mr. Ejiro for first putting the lives of others before his. To him, this is what humanity is all about.
The Controller-General of the Fire Service urged all Nigerians to be fire-safety conscious at all times and to see fire safety as everyone’s responsibility.
He also advised that fire extinguishers and arresters be made available at all fuel dispensing places and all staff of fuel stations should be acquainted with fire prevention tips.
