Prince Orji Ugochukwu, an immigration officer who made headlines for rejecting a ₦15 million bribe from a fleeing suspected ritualist, has been honoured by Abia State governor, Alex Otti, and celebrated by other private citizens for his exemplary integrity and courage.
The officer, who hails from Isiala Ngwa North local government area of Abia State and currently serving at the Nigeria–Benin Republic border post, intercepted the suspect, identified as High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu, popularly known as “Ezeani” or “Ichie Billion” as he attempted to flee the country under suspicious circumstances.
Speaking during a formal reception held in Ugochukwu’s honour, Governor Otti praised his “exceptional commitment to justice, transparency, and professionalism,” describing him as “a role model for public servants and a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.”
“His courage has rekindled public faith in the immigration service and our national institutions,” the governor declared, adding that the officer’s action was worthy of emulation across the country.
Ugochukwu’s bravery has since drawn national attention and earned him widespread commendation. In his local community, a grand reception was organised by constituents led by Rt. Hon. Ginger O. Onwusibe, member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, to celebrate what many have called a defining moment of hope for public service in Nigeria.
In a separate event held in Umuabo, Ihembosi, Anambra State, the officer was honoured by prominent industrialist Chief Dr. Ebuka Onunkwo, chairman and CEO of Seahorse Lubricant Industries Ltd., with a ₦5 million cash gift in recognition of his unwavering dedication to duty.
“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.”
Chief Onunkwo, who hosted the officer at his country home, described the gesture as both symbolic and patriotic, aimed at promoting a renewed sense of integrity in Nigeria’s public institutions.
Recounting the incident, Ugochukwu said he was on routine duty when the suspect, already wanted for alleged serial ritual killings and burying victims alive in the South-East, rode past on a motorcycle.
“Something about his face struck a chord,” Ugochukwu recalled. “So I trailed him discreetly to the next checkpoint. I stopped him and confronted him with his photo. He denied it at first, claiming it was his brother. But I insisted.”
According to the officer, the suspect initially offered a bribe of ₦3 million, which increased progressively to ₦7 million, ₦10 million, and finally ₦15 million, with his wife allegedly promising to send the money.
“I pretended to cooperate just to detain him without raising alarm,” Ugochukwu said. “When I confirmed with my superior that he was indeed the wanted man, I handcuffed him and recovered voice notes from his phone that revealed attempts to erase his tracks.”
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