Fmr. Gov Ikpeazu rewards Aba Tricycle Rider with ₦2.1 Million for Returning ₦4 Million Left by Passenger
In a powerful testament to the enduring value of integrity, Mr. Lucky Ihuoma Okoro, a humble tricycle rider popularly known as Onye Photo, has received a ₦2.1 million cash reward from members of the Ikpeazu Faithfuls—a socio-political group loyal to former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.
Mr. Okoro, a native of Umuomei community in Obingwa Local Government Area, recently captured the hearts of many across Nigeria and beyond when he returned a bag containing ₦4 million and valuables forgotten in his tricycle by a Cameroonian woman. The woman had boarded his tricycle en route to Ariaria International Market in Aba but accidentally left her bag behind. Demonstrating extraordinary honesty, Mr. Okoro went to great lengths to trace and return the money to its rightful owner—an act that quickly went viral on social media.
Moved by this rare show of integrity, the Ikpeazu Faithfuls decided to honour Mr. Okoro with a cash gift matching the amount he returned. During a well-attended reception held in Aba, the group presented him with ₦2.1 million to celebrate his courage, honesty, and the moral lesson his story offers in today’s society.
Speaking at the event, Chief Rowland Nwakamma, Chairman of the Obingwa Stakeholders Forum and the host, lauded Mr. Okoro's actions as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the values that define the Igbo identity.
“In a society where trust is fast eroding, Mr. Lucky has shown that there are still good men among us. His honesty is not just admirable—it is exemplary. He deserves to be celebrated and supported,” Nwakamma said.
The event was also graced by notable personalities including Hon. George Ubani, former Chairman of Obingwa LGA; Hon. Chiemela Moses; and Hon. Prince Ukpom, all of whom echoed similar sentiments. They called on governments, civil society groups, and benevolent individuals to support and uplift Nigerians like Mr. Okoro who embody values that strengthen the moral fabric of the nation.
Visibly overwhelmed and emotional, Mr. Okoro expressed deep gratitude to the Ikpeazu Faithfuls, saying:
“I returned the money because I knew it was the right thing to do. I never expected this kind of reward, but I’m truly grateful. May God bless everyone who made this possible.”
This remarkable story comes months after another incident where Immigration Officer Prince Ugochukwu Orji rejected a ₦10 million bribe from a fleeing ritualist in Enugu. Notably, both Orji and Okoro hail from the Ngwa clan, a sub-ethnic group within Igbo land known for its rich heritage of integrity and strong moral compass. The Ngwa people remain the most populous sub-Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria.
Mr. Okoro’s action has reignited national conversations about honouring upright citizens and reinforcing ethical conduct in daily life. His story has not only inspired many but has also sparked a call for systems that reward good character in both public and private life.
