Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has publicly praised an Abia-born immigration officer, Mr. Ugochukwu Prince Orji, for his exemplary act of integrity in rejecting a ₦10 million bribe while on duty.
Governor Otti expressed his commendation during a meeting with a 30-man delegation representing the organizers and sponsors of the Oha Isiala Ngwa Grand Civic Reception. The event was held in his honor to recognize his visible achievements and impactful leadership across Isiala Ngwa and Abia State at large.
In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Governor Otti lauded Mr. Orji for his outstanding display of honesty and professionalism. He described the officer as a worthy ambassador of both his community and Abia State.
“I have always made this point that we are straight forward people, we are not criminals. We don’t steal, we don’t cheat. Of course, out of every 12, there must be a Judas. Sometimes the Judas is so loud that he drowns the good jobs of the other 11″ the Governor said.
He emphasized that the people of Abia State are hardworking, self-reliant, and proud to earn a living through honest means.
Governor Otti also encouraged Officer Orji to stay strong in his convictions and not be swayed by those who may question his decision to reject such a large sum.
The Governor assured the immigration officer that his act of integrity would not go unnoticed, stating that he would be formally celebrated by the state government in due course.
