The passenger, Mrs. Nkechi John, boarded the bus at Uzuakoli headed for Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia but alighted at Ubani Market.
John, a petty trader, unknowingly left her bag — containing cash and other personal belongings — in the vehicle.
Upon realizing what happened, she immediately went to the terminal, where Ikpendu had secured the bag and its contents.
Narrating his experience to newsmen, the driver said he had no intention of holding onto the money because he was content 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.
According to him, returning the money to its owner was important because he believes that God rewards honesty and good deeds.
On her part, John expressed gratitude to the Abia bus driver for his honesty and also thanked Gov. Alex Otti for constructing the terminal.
She said the terminal made it easier for her to trace the vehicle and recover her belongings, adding that the money was meant for her business.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, commended Ikpendu for displaying integrity and sincerity. Ukaegbu described the driver’s action as a positive example worth emulating by other residents.
He said the incident reflects a positive change in the mindset of Abia citizens.
“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 continue demonstrating honesty and integrity in their daily lives, describing Ikpendu’s action as an example of responsible citizenship.
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