The mayor of Port Harcourt, Victor Nyeche Ihunwo has declared that he will place the Port Harcourt Volunteer Traffic Warden, Pa. Friday Opurum, on monthly salary.
This gesture comes days after the Rivers State Icon Award receipient was evicted from his home due to his inability to pay rent.
The development quickly generated reactions on social media with artists including Bobby Rak calling on good samaritans to help and alleviate the man’s suffering.
Pa Opurum was honoured alongside the national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus by the Rivers state governor Nyesom Wike during the maiden Rivers State Icon Award in 2018.
The mayor of Port Harcourt said the move became necessary following calls by residents to alleviate the suffering of Pa Opurum who has dedicated his time to ensure free-flow of traffic in Port Harcourt.
He, however, did not declare when the payment will start.
A good Samaritan is currently sheltering Pa Opurum and his wife at an undisclosed location in Port Harcourt pending when alternative accommodation is made for him.