I am grateful and content with what I have, therefore, no amount of money I see now will move me to take what does not belong to me
By Moses Okorie
A commercial bus driver in Abia, Mr Onyekachi Ikpendu, has been commended for his honesty after returning more than N400,000 forgotten in his vehicle by a passenger.
The passenger, Mrs Nkechi John, a petty trader, had boarded the bus at Uzuakoli en route to Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal, Umuahia, but alighted at Ubani Market without realising that she had left her bag containing the money and other personal belongings in the vehicle.
Upon discovering her loss, John immediately returned to the terminal, where Ikpendu had kept the bag and its contents intact.
Speaking to newsmen, Ikpendu said he did not consider keeping the money because he was satisfied with earning a living through honest work.
“I am grateful and content with what I have, therefore, no amount of money I see now will move me to take what does not belong to me,” he said.
The driver said returning the money was the right thing to do, adding that he believed honesty and good deeds would ultimately attract God’s reward.
John expressed appreciation to Ikpendu for his integrity, saying the money was meant to support her business.
She also thanked the Abia State Government, particularly Gov. Alex Otti, for constructing the terminal, which she said made it easier for her to trace the vehicle and recover her belongings.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, praised Ikpendu for demonstrating integrity and sincerity.
Ukaegbu described the driver’s action as a worthy example of responsible citizenship and urged other residents to emulate his conduct.
He said the incident was evidence of a positive shift in the mindset of Abia residents.
“Our people are showing gratitude to His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti, for his good work and exemplary leadership in the state.
“Honestly, the mindset of the people is changing towards doing the right thing even without being compelled,” the commissioner said.
He urged residents to uphold honesty and integrity in their daily activities, stressing that Ikpendu’s gesture demonstrated the values needed to build a responsible and trustworthy society.