A brave stand against corruption earns Officer Ugochukwu Orji public honour. Learn why Isiala Ngwa is celebrating this rare act of integrity. Read full story.
A rare act of bravery and integrity is set to be honoured in Isiala Ngwa, Abia State, as Officer Ugochukwu Orji of the Nigeria Immigration Service will receive special recognition for rejecting a ₦10 million bribe offered to facilitate the release of a notorious fugitive, Mr. Levi Obieze.
This honour comes as part of a grand civic reception organised in celebration of the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti. However, in a surprise announcement, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, the Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency and Co-Chairman of the Planning Committee, revealed that the people of Isiala Ngwa had decided to extend the honour to Orji as a model of integrity worthy of national celebration.
Officer Ugochukwu Orji is reported to have stood his ground and refused a staggering ₦10 million bribe from associates of Mr. Obieze—a self-proclaimed native doctor from Enugu who was apprehended while trying to escape justice. The fugitive is accused of horrifying crimes, including allegedly burying human beings alive within his residence.
The incident has since drawn national attention, not just for the gravity of Obieze’s crimes, but for the rare courage displayed by Orji in refusing to compromise public safety and justice for personal gain.
Speaking ahead of the civic reception, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe said:
“Congratulations, our dear brother. You have made us proud and shown that Isiala Ngwa people can be trusted. We have resolved to honour you tomorrow alongside the Governor. I have already written to your office to request your release. We will take care of your air ticket and logistics. We are proud of you.”
According to Onwusibe, Officer Orji’s exemplary conduct reflects the true values of Isiala Ngwa people—honesty, integrity, and responsibility in public service. He stressed that this honour is not just a gesture of appreciation, but a call to society to uphold moral standards even in the face of temptation.
The honour for Orji forms part of a broader initiative to spotlight and reward individuals who display uncommon character in the line of duty. It is a signal that Abians are ready to celebrate integrity just as much as they celebrate power or wealth.
While many headlines often focus on scandals involving corruption within the public sector, this moment stands as a powerful contrast—highlighting that there are still Nigerians who wear their uniforms with honour and protect the interests of the people with unshakable conviction.
The civic reception in Isiala Ngwa will not only celebrate the achievements of Governor Alex Otti but will also shine a light on Officer Orji as an unsung hero whose courage and ethical stance deserve to be recorded in the annals of public service.
The ceremony is expected to draw stakeholders from across Abia and beyond, uniting the state in recognition of values that truly matter—service, truth, and sacrifice.