By CHIMEZIE ANASO

Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, the Managing Director of Seahorse Lubricant Limited has commended Mr Ugochukwu Orji, the immigration officer who apprehended the fleeing suspected ritualist at Seme border for his gallantry and refusal to be bribed.

Onunkwo, who received Orji in his Ihembosi home, Ihiala local Government Area of Anambra on Tuesday gave him a cash reward of N5 million.

Recall that Orji was instrumental to apprehending fleeing Mr Levi Obieze (Mazi Ezeani), the Ezeagu based ritualist in Enugu whose property was burnt by a mob following the discovery of alleged ritual activities which involved human lives.

The officer was said to have been offered a financial bribe ranging from N3 million to N15 million by the suspect to allow him escape but he refused.

Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State had earlier commended the Abia born Immigration officer for his exemplary feat.

The industrialist who is a frontline aspirant for the Anambra South Senatorial District bye election said Orji stood for justice at a time money tried to buy his conscience.

He expressed delight that there were still men of honour and integrity in Nigeria as exemplified by the immigration officer who he said stood in the gap when it mattered most by displaying courage and outstanding sense of duty.

Onunkwo used the opportunity to call on government and institutions to recognise and honour Nigerians who show exemplary behaviour as a motivation to do more and encouragement for others to do same when the occasion arises.

“I urge the Nigerian Immigration Service to look into this case and consider rewarding Ugochukwu Orji 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.

“I call on well-meaning Nigerians, the civil society and the Federal Government to spotlight Orji’s bravery and use his story as a campaign for ethical leadership and national transformation,” he said.

Onunkwo condemned the ritual act and those who participated in it, saying they must not be allowed to escape justice. (NAN)