Mr. Raymond Onoh, a tricycle operator in Abia State has received commendations and prayers for his exemplary display of honesty, particularly, within this festive period, when criminality is on the increase.
Raymond, who hails from Obiagwulu-Ututu in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia state and has been in KEKE business for over ten years, personally returned a lost bag containing the sum of ₦470,000 cash, a laptop, certificates, appointment letters and other valuables to the rightful owner,
The incident occurred during Mr. Onoh's routine operations in Umuahia, the Abia state capital. According to the narration, after dropping-off the last passenger in his KEKE at the popular Isi- Gate, while heading back toward Umudike- Junction.
Onoh said he noticed a bag left at the back of his tricycle. The owner of the bag was, at long last, said to have been on his way to Cross River state.
"I picked up the bag and placed it in front of my keke. I expected to find the owner of the bag nearby, but after waiting and searching, no one came forward.
“Upon returning home, I and my junior brother inspected the bag and discovered it contained ₦470,000 in cash, a Dell laptop, school credentials, an appointment letter, and other personal items. We also found a book containing a phone number, which we used to contact the owner” Onoh explained.
After all the efforts, it was discovered that the bag belonged to Mr. Tangban Eji Ejor, a student at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. who expressed deep gratitude and amazement at the recovery of his belongings.
In his own narration, Ejor explained that he had unknowingly left the bag in the tricycle while traveling from the University to Isi Gate.
"I visited several stations to file complaints and was even preparing to announce the loss on air, through some of the Umuahia-based Radion stations, when I received a call from the keke rider, Mr. Onoh", he said.
Upon retrieving the bag, Ejor confirmed that all items were intact.
“It’s hard to believe such honesty exists in today’s world. I’m incredibly grateful. No reward can adequately compensate for his(Onoh’s) kindness. In fact, I have written a letter to the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, recommending Onoh for recognition for this singular behavior, particularly, at this period people are busy undertaking all manner of evil practices to make ends meet for the period.” Ejor remarked.
An eyewitness, Mr. Otunbade Tobias, owner of Otixi Ventures in Umuahia, corroborated the story. Tobias revealed that Ejor had visited his shop before realizing his bag was missing. "We searched extensively and even considered a radio announcement before the keke rider contacted him," Tobias said.
Tobias added that he helped facilitate the bag’s return on behalf of Ejor, who had to travel to Cross River. "When I met the keke rider, he opened the bag, checked its contents, and confirmed ownership. Everything was intact," he recounted.
Speaking on his motivation, Onoh attributed his actions to his faith and moral upbringing. "My life is guided by the spirit of God and the principle of doing what is right. Good deeds endure longer than bad ones," he said.
He also urged others to practice honesty and integrity, emphasizing the importance of building a trustworthy society.
Tobias echoed these sentiments, encouraging the public to emulate such exemplary behavior.
“Returning lost items is not just a moral duty; it also attracts blessings from God and people. Despite the challenges in our country, Nigeria, individuals like Mr. Onoh reminds us that good citizens still exist,” Tobias concluded.
This selfless act of Mr. Onoh has been widely celebrated, with calls from home and the diaspora for him to be recognized and rewarded for his integrity.
In his message to Raymond Onoh, the President general of Ututu Development Association (UDA), Sir Charles Nwankwo declared thus: “I’m so proud of you (Raymond). You have projected the name and image of Ututu in a positive limelight. We shall celebrate and reward you accordingly at our forthcoming Ututu Day.
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