In an inspiring act of honesty and integrity, a Nigerian-American woman, Victoria Ogunremi, has returned $5,700 she discovered in the restroom of her workplace in New Jersey, United States. The incident, which has garnered widespread admiration, underscores the power of personal values and moral upbringing in shaping individual decisions.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a telephone interview on Monday, Ogunremi revealed that her decision to return the money was driven by empathy for the individual who misplaced it and her deep-rooted Christian faith. She expressed that the potential trauma the loss could have caused the owner was a key factor in her quick response.
“The thought of the pain or trauma it could cause inspired me,” she said. “I did not hesitate to return it because of my Christian faith and beliefs. Honesty brings peace of mind, and it is the key virtue I cherish.”
After finding the money, Ogunremi ensured the rightful owner was located before reporting the incident to her workplace management. Her actions earned her immense praise from her employer, colleagues, and the individual who lost the money.
“The management was very pleased and proud of me. The owner was incredibly grateful and showered me with praises,” Ogunremi recounted. “They told me it could only have been an act of kindness by a woman with the fear of God to do something like this.”
Ogunremi attributed her integrity to the moral principles instilled in her by her late father, who emphasized the importance of honesty and respect for others’ belongings.
“My late father taught us never to take what does not belong to us,” she explained. “Such principles have guided me throughout my life, and they are values I hope to pass on to my children and grandchildren. Whether someone is watching or not, doing the right thing matters. A good name is priceless, and peace of mind is golden.”
Ogunremi also urged others to uphold integrity regardless of their circumstances. “No matter how tough your situation is, always return what does not belong to you. Doing the right thing brings rewards far greater than anything material.”
Her exemplary act of honesty serves as a reminder of the enduring value of integrity in today’s society and has been lauded as a positive reflection of Nigerians living abroad.
