A prominent politician and businessman, Amb. Abubakar Sadeeq Plaza, has rewarded a petty trader, Mrs. Sarah Luka, with N500,000 for returning N1 million she found hidden in goods she purchased at Terminus Market, Jos.
Mrs. Luka, who runs a small business along Lamingo Road, had bought leather bags worth about N6,000 from a wholesaler, Mr. Abubakar Dola, about two weeks ago.
Unknown to her at the time of purchase, the consignment contained a polythene bag with N1 million cash, which had been mistakenly concealed inside the goods .
However, upon discovering the money at her residence, she promptly returned it to the owner without hesitation.
Explaining her action, Mrs. Luka attributed her honesty to the fear of God and her firm belief in integrity, stressing that honesty transcends religious and ethnic divides, especially in a cosmopolitan city like Jos.
“I did what I believe is right. The money does not belong to me,” she said.
The owner of the money, Mr. Abubakar Dola, expressed deep gratitude and relief, describing her action as rare and commendable, particularly in the face of prevailing economic hardship.
Market leaders in the area also praised the gesture, describing it as a shining example of moral uprightness capable of inspiring others.
Moved by the development, Amb. Abubakar Sadeeq Plaza commended Mrs. Luka for her integrity, describing her action as a model of honesty that should be emulated across the country.
He said her conduct has the potential to foster unity and rebuild trust among diverse religious and ethnic groups in Plateau State and beyond.
“I am personally impressed by her honesty. This is the kind of character our society needs,” he said.
The politician thereafter announced a donation of N500,000 to support her business, urging Nigerians, irrespective of background, to embrace values of integrity and accountability.
He further called on leaders at all levels to promote ethical standards in both public and private life, noting that such actions can help bridge divisions and encourage peaceful coexistence.
Vanguard gathered that the cash donation was presented to Mrs. Luka in Jos on Tuesday.
