Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has publicly lauded Immigration Officer Ugochukwu Orji for his integrity in rejecting a N10 million bribe while on duty, describing those mocking the officer's decision as engaging in "foolish talk."

The governor made these remarks over the weekend while receiving members of Oha Isiala Ngwa who had organized a civic reception in his honor. Otti expressed pride that the Abia-born officer had demonstrated exceptional honesty, serving as "a good ambassador of his community and Abia State at large."

"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," Otti told the officer, promising formal recognition from the state government in due course.

The immigration officer had reportedly rejected the substantial bribe from a suspected ritualist at Seme Border, an action that has drawn both praise and, surprisingly to the governor, criticism.

Addressing the criticism, Otti did not mince words: "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 encouraged Officer Orji not to be discouraged by negative comments, acknowledging that "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."

Otti urged the officer to "continue to serve in a straightforward manner" and to hold on to the example he has set through his actions.

This public commendation comes as part of what appears to be Governor Otti's broader stance against corruption and his administration's efforts to recognize and celebrate integrity in public service.