The Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Imo State, Samuel Udeh, has demonstrated an outstanding act of integrity by returning a substantial sum of money forgotten by a passenger to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, after unsuccessful attempts to locate the rightful owner.
The handover took place at the Command’s headquarters in Owerri, where Udeh, accompanied by senior union officials, presented the cash to the commissioner.
According to Udeh, the money was discovered in a vehicle by one of the union’s drivers, and after waiting in vain for the owner to come forward, the union decided to entrust it to the police for safekeeping and proper identification.
Speaking on the incident, Udeh emphasized that integrity is a core principle of the reformation currently taking place within the NURTW.
He reiterated his commitment to transforming the union’s image and instilling professionalism among its members.
“One of my unit chairmen informed me about a large sum of money left behind by a passenger. Given our renewed focus on accountability, we resolved to hand it over to the police to ensure it is rightfully returned. This is part of our effort to build a responsible and trustworthy union,” Udeh stated.
He further noted, “Our union has often been mischaracterized as a group of unruly individuals, but we are proving that we are disciplined professionals who contribute positively to society.”
While commending Udeh and the NURTW for their honesty, the commissioner described the act as a rare display of integrity and public trust. He also suggested national recognition for the driver who initially found the money.
“This is a remarkable example of transparency. The NURTW leadership’s decision to surrender the money to the police underscores their commitment to ethical conduct. Such behavior deserves commendation at the national level,” Danjuma said.
He assured the public that the funds would remain in police custody until the rightful owner steps forward. If unclaimed within the stipulated period, the money, as announced by him, will be deposited into the federal government’s account, with proof submitted to the court.