Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has showered praise on Ugochukwu Orji, the Abia-born immigration officer who stunned many by turning down a “ten million Naira bribe” while carrying out his duty.
The governor promised that Orji “would be celebrated by Abia State in due course.”
Speaking over the weekend during a visit from Oha Isiala Ngwa leaders who had earlier held a civic reception in his honour Governor Otti described Orji’s conduct as a proud moment for the entire state.
He urged the officer “not to be discouraged by anybody mocking him for rejecting the bribe.”
Governor Otti said he was especially impressed by the officer’s moral strength and sense of duty, calling him “a good ambassador of his community and Abia State at large.”
Referencing past moments when integrity was publicly rewarded, the Governor told Orji:
“What you did is typical of us. Just like the gentleman who returned a huge sum of money and we celebrated him, so, we will celebrate you also.”
He acknowledged the weight of the decision:
READ ALSO: Abia Nears Takeover of EEDC as Otti Confirms Advanced Talks
“Ten million Naira is a lot of money, and you could do so much with it, but you rejected it. And, you rejected it because it is not earned…So, I want to encourage you to continue to serve in a straightforward manner. This example you have shown, hold on to it.”
Governor Otti said it was unfortunate that some people were ridiculing Orji for refusing to accept the bribe offered by a suspected ritualist at Seme Border. But he told the officer to ignore such voices.
He called out the flawed mindset behind the criticism:
“It is foolish to think that you can cheat your way out and then become a big man tomorrow. No! Whatever you get illegally, somehow, someday, somewhere, you will lose and pay for it.”
The Governor’s remarks framed Orji’s act as more than personal; it was a stand for values Abia people should continue to live by.