Nigerian University Lecturer Returns N1.1 Million Erroneously Paid by NDA
In a remarkable display of honesty and integrity, Professor Umar Ka’oje, a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, returned N1,153,953.36 that was mistakenly paid to him by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). The payment was made after the expiration of his teaching contract with the prestigious military academy.
The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Maj.-Gen. John-Ochefu Ochai, went the extra mile to visit ABU Zaria and personally commend Professor Ka’oje for his principled action. This visit followed a letter of commendation dated September 11, which had been previously sent by the NDA to acknowledge the lecturer’s integrity.
During his visit to ABU, the Commandant was warmly received by Dr. Rahanatu Lawal, the Head of the Department of Political Science and International Studies at the university. Dr. Lawal emphasized the rarity of Professor Ka’oje’s moral courage and character in today’s society and called for such exemplary behavior to be emulated.
Maj.-Gen. Ochai expressed his deep appreciation for Professor Ka’oje’s extraordinary act of returning the funds. He stated that such an act is infrequent in the African context, which made it even more praiseworthy. Additionally, the Commandant pledged that the NDA would further honor the professor at an appropriate time, recognizing the importance of his honest and ethical conduct.
He also commended the Department of Political Science and International Studies at ABU for fostering a culture of training leaders to be honest and accountable.
In his response, Professor Ka’oje expressed his gratitude for the NDA’s recognition and thanked the Commandant for acknowledging and rewarding honesty. The commendation serves as a testament to the value of integrity and ethical behavior in society.
This heartwarming story highlights the importance of upholding ethical standards, even in situations where one could have benefited from an erroneous payment. It underscores the significance of moral courage and honesty in the academic and professional world.
