Glowing tributes have poured in for Joe Blankson who died while saving 13 people following a boat mishap in the South southern state of Rivers.
Blankson singlehandedly managed to pull 13 people out of the river, going in and out, but eventually became exhausted as he went into the river the save the 14th person.
It was in saving the 14th person that Blankson tragically drowned in the river.
Rivers State police spokesperson, Nnamdi Omoni confirmed that a passenger boat, carrying 24 people, crashed into an object.
Omoni also confirmed that Blackson, 36, was the only casualty. As he was selflessly saving lives, others in the vicinity – including other boat drivers – stepped in to help rescue the remaining 10 people.
But the heroics of the father of two children have not gone unnoticed. Globally, people have paid tribute to Joseph Blankson for his selflessness and rare real-life superhero determination to save others.
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Touched by Blankson’s heroics, Stephanie Buhari wrote, “A real-life superhero. Rest in peace Joe Blankson .”
Iye tweeted, ” Selflessness personified! RIP Hero #JoeBlankson”
Reiko Fullard wrote, “Thanking him for his bravely and hoping his family will have all the support they need in their lives. RIP.”
Naija Mayor tweeted, “The greatest hero I have ever seen or heard of…rest in peace Joe! while Gatiri Dakwak Asaolu said, “He gave his life to save others.”
This guy was a selfless hero. The world needs more people like him
— RedMountain (@kimJongPoontang) August 6, 2018
You died well mate. May you rest in peace.
— Maxos (@Chronos90) August 6, 2018
What a hero, may he rest in peace with Saman Gunan who died while saving the 12 boys and their soccer coach trapped in a cave. The world has too few real heros like these men.
— John Teasley (@teasleyj) August 6, 2018
I’ve tried saving a soul before and almost got drown with the person. This guy saved 13. I mean he saved 13 and was going for the 14 person and lost steam. He deserve a national posthumous award.
— dabo james (@dajamesy) August 6, 2018
