Ejiro Otarigho Rejects National Honour For New Tanker

Driver Ejiro Otarigho has said that he needs a new vehicle after driving a burning fuel tanker away from a community in Delta state.

Last week, Otarigho drove his tanker to a river bank after it caught fire in a residential area.

His bravery and actions have earned him praise from Nigerians, including the senate, which has decided to honour him.

The 46-year-old, who began the dangerous job of tanker driving about 12 years ago, said he would rather have his tanker replaced than receive a national honour, despite receiving a commendation from the Delta state government.

“I have received calls from them (Delta state government) but I am not interested in any national honour of any sort right now,” he said.

“I know God has brought me to a good place where my story is now being told. All I want is a replacement for my burnt tanker so I can go back to my job.

“I have just been at home and truck driving was the only way I fed. It has not been easy for me since I lost my tanker.”

Asked if he would like to get a new job and abandon the dangerous business of tanker driving, he said, “of course, I will. It is a risky job”.

“Imagine if I had died that day, nothing would have been said of me. If the government has something better for me, I will do it without looking back. All I want is to be able to take care of myself and my family legitimately,” he said.