A Nigerian-American woman, Victoria Ogunremi, has been celebrated for her honesty after returning $5,700 that she found in the toilet of her workplace in New Jersey, United States.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, January 27, Ogunremi explained that her decision to return the cash stemmed from her empathy for the person who lost it.
The act of integrity has earned her widespread recognition from her employer, colleagues, and the individual who misplaced the money.
“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.”
She said that she had found the owner of the money before informing her employer’s organisation management.
Ogunremi said that her co-workers also admired her gesture, and many were not surprised by her act of kindness.
“The management was very pleased and proud of me. The owner was incredibly grateful and showered me with praise.
“They told me that it could only have been an act of kindness by a woman with the fear of God to do something like this,” she recounted.
The Nigerian-American attributed her kind nature to her late father’s teachings on moral upbringing, adding “he taught us never to take what does not belong to us.
“Such principles have guided me throughout my life, knowing that honesty is a principle I hope to instil in 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.
“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.”
NAN reports that Ogunremi’s gesture is a shining example of integrity and compassion, of doing what is right even when it is not the easiest path.