Governor Otti Commends Immigration Officer Ugochukwu Orji for Rejecting ₦10m Bribe

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has praised Ugochukwu Prince Orji, an immigration officer from Abia State, for his remarkable act of integrity in rejecting a ₦10 million bribe while on duty. Governor Otti described Orji as a “true patriot” and a worthy ambassador of both Abia State and Nigeria.

The commendation came during the Oha Isiala Ngwa Grand Civic Reception, held in honour of Governor Otti, where a 30-member delegation of the event’s organizers and sponsors also took the opportunity to celebrate Orji’s moral courage.

“You’ve made Abia and Nigeria proud,” Otti declared. “This is who we are — a people of integrity, not easily swayed by ill-gotten wealth. Yes, there may be the occasional Judas, but the good among us must shine.”

Otti noted that Orji’s brave action echoed another widely praised incident involving a Keke rider who returned lost money — another example of Abians choosing honesty over corruption. He assured Orji of official state recognition in due course and mentioned that Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, had already begun honoring him, as the incident occurred in Enugu.

“₦10 million is no small amount,” Otti said. “You could have done a lot with it, but you chose honour. That decision speaks volumes. Don’t let anyone make you feel foolish for doing the right thing. What’s gotten illegally never lasts.”

Orji, who hails from Obikabia in Isiala Ngwa South LGA, had earlier been commended by Governor Mbah of Enugu State, who posted on social media platform X:

“Orji chose duty over personal gain and upheld the honour of his uniform. He is a role model for all Nigerians.”

Orji’s actions led to the apprehension of a prime suspect in a gruesome case in Ezeagu, who was attempting to flee the country. His quick thinking and refusal of a bribe played a pivotal role in bringing justice closer.

Senator Darlington Nwokocha, who led the delegation, praised Orji’s bravery and said, “By celebrating you, we celebrate the best of who we are.”
Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, who represents Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, also thanked Governor Otti for his humility and for accepting to be honoured — a rare gesture for a leader known to avoid public fanfare.