A cleric, Rev. Fr. Daniel Onah,Parish priest, Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Abakpa-Nike, Enugu, has urged Nigerians to be forthright and honest in discharging their dutiess inorder to make indelible mark in life.
He gave the charge in a homily on Wednesday at the Service of Songs in honour of Chigozie Ugwu, 39, a gallant fire-fighter, who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Pox- Engr Ohaa(3rd L)- Rev Fr Onah (2nd
Ugwu lost his life on Dec. 13 while fighting mid-night fire outbreak at the Motor Spare Parts Market, Coal Camp in Enugu.
The cleric said that it remained a painful death, however, he died trying to save lives and property within the state.
Onah said that Ugwu remained outstanding and forthright among his fellow fire officers and with positive testimonials following his life.
“We are here for someone whose stewardship and sacrifice even in death stand out and just as our Lord Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for us to have eternity.
“Nigerians should make their lives outstanding and holy as death can come anytime and the account of our stewardship will be required,” he said.
Speaking, the Director of Enugu State Fire and Rescue Service, Engr Okwudiri Ohaa, said that Ugwu was exceptional and passionate about the job.
Ohaa noted that he missed an initial employment in the service and after some years later gained employment into it.
Pix- Sympathizers
He said: “Ugwu always lead his team by being at the fore-front of the operation and does not feel comfortable delegating operation to his subordinates.
“He also shown selflessness in his relationship with other colleagues and even subordinates under him directly.
“The Service lost a gallant fighter and someone that is highly dependable.”
“it is still painful after much sacrifice and numerous commendations both from the state and nation the Service had received due to his commitment to duty, Ugwu left us,” Ohaa said.
Ugwu, who was a Senior Fire Officer, and second in a family of eight, studied Mechanical Engineering at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, (ESUTH) where he graduated with a first class.
Until his death on Dec. 13, 2023;, Ugwu was a Watch Officer in-charge of Red Watch – one of the shifts at the Enugu State Fire and Rescue Service.
Author- Maureen Ikpeama