In a remarkable display of appreciation for integrity in public service, Chief Dr. Ebuka Onunkwo, Chairman/CEO of Seahorse Lubricant Industries Ltd., has rewarded Immigration Officer Prince Ugochukwu Orji with ₦5 million for his role in apprehending a notorious Enugu-based ritualist.

The presentation ceremony took place at Chief Onunkwo's residence in Umuabo, Ihembosi, Anambra State, where he hosted the officer to celebrate his exceptional courage and commitment to duty.

Prince Ugochukwu Orji, an Abia-born immigration officer stationed at the Nigeria-Benin Republic border, demonstrated remarkable integrity by refusing bribes that eventually reached ₦15 million from the suspect who was desperate to evade arrest.

A Heroic Act of Integrity

"Nigeria still has men of honour," Chief Onunkwo declared during the presentation. "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 ₦5 million not just to appreciate his bravery but to encourage a culture of truth and accountability in our nation."

According to Officer Orji's account, he was on duty when he spotted the suspect, Mr. Levi Obieze (also known as Mazi Ezeani), who was wanted for ritual killings and burying victims alive. After recognizing the suspect from wanted photos, Ugochukwu strategically detained him despite escalating bribe offers.

"I stopped him and confronted him with his photo. He denied at first, saying it was his brother. But I insisted," Ugochukwu recounted. "He then tried to bribe me – ₦3 million... then ₦7 million... ₦10 million... eventually ₦15 million, with his wife promising to send the money. I pretended to cooperate just to detain him without raising alarm."

The officer later confirmed the suspect's identity with his superior and recovered incriminating voice notes from the suspect's phone that revealed attempts to cover his tracks.

Call for Official Recognition

Chief Dr. Onunkwo used the occasion to call on the Nigerian government and the Immigration Service to officially recognize Ugochukwu's exemplary conduct with a promotion.

"I urge the Nigerian Immigration Service to look into this case and consider rewarding Ugochukwu officially. Let this be an example to others – that honesty is not only possible in this country but it also pays. Our system must start celebrating people who choose integrity over impunity," he emphasized.

The industrialist also appealed to well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the Federal Government to highlight Ugochukwu's bravery as a model for ethical leadership and national transformation.

"God will not forgive anyone who participated in the evil that this man committed," Onunkwo added. "Whether directly or by aiding his escape – justice must be served, and those like Ugochukwu who stand for justice must be honoured."

Prince Ugochukwu Orji's story serves as a powerful reminder that even in challenging times, courageous Nigerians continue to uphold justice and protect the innocent.

Follow BenriNews on Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | WhatsApp | Telegram