An immigration officer who arrested a fleeing Enugu State native doctor accused of ritual killings has been rewarded with N5 million for his bravery and integrity.

Prince Ugochukwu Orji, who was on duty at the Seme Border when he intercepted the alleged ritualist attempting to escape to the Republic of Benin, received the monetary reward from Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist.

Onunkwo, who is also a senatorial aspirant for the Anambra South senatorial district by-election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), hosted Orji at his residence in Ihembosi, Ekwusigo Local Government Area, Anambra State.

The incident occurred last month when Orji recognized Ichie Billion, the alleged fake native doctor, attempting to cross the border on a motorcycle. Having seen the suspect's face on the internet, Orji quickly moved to apprehend him.

Celebrating Integrity in Public Service

While presenting the N5 million cheque, Onunkwo, who is the Chairman/CEO of Seahorse Lubricant Industries Ltd., described the gesture as part of his company's corporate social responsibility and an encouragement for moral renaissance in society.

Nigeria still has men of honour. Ugochukwu stood in the gap when it mattered. In a system where many are tempted to sell their conscience, he chose to uphold the law.

"Seahorse is giving him N5 million not just to appreciate his bravery but to encourage a culture of truth and accountability in our nation," Onunkwo stated.

He further urged the Nigerian Immigration Service to consider rewarding Orji officially, emphasizing that the system must celebrate people who choose integrity over impunity.

How the Arrest Happened

Recounting the events that led to the arrest, Orji revealed that he confronted the suspect with his photo, which the latter initially denied, claiming it was his brother.

"He then tried to bribe me with N3 million, then N7 million, N10 million, and eventually N15 million, with his wife promising to send the money," Orji narrated.

The immigration officer explained that he pretended to cooperate to detain the suspect without raising an alarm. After confirming with his superior that the man was indeed wanted, he handcuffed him and recovered voice notes from the suspect's phone that revealed attempts to erase his tracks.

Ichie Billion had been on the run after being accused of killing people for ritual purposes in Enugu State.

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