For Returning N2.5 Million Found In His Keke, Mohammed Bello Is Our 2024 Man of the Year

In a world where stories of dishonesty and greed often dominate the headlines, it's refreshing to hear of a tale that restores our faith in humanity. Mohammed Bello, a young Keke Napep rider in his early 20s from Jalingo, Taraba State, has proven that integrity and honesty still hold immense value. For his remarkable act of returning N2.5 million that was mistakenly left in his tricycle popularly called  Keke, Mohammed Bello is our 2024 Man of the Year.

In March 2024, a seemingly ordinary day for Mohammed took a turn that would make him an unsung hero to many. While most Keke Napep riders in the area may have been struggling to make ends meet, Mohammed was faced with an unexpected choice—one that would define his character. As the story goes, on that particular morning, Mohammed picked up a passenger who asked to be dropped off at Hassan Bappa Plaza. Along the way, the passenger requested that he stop at Tashan Lau to pick up a heavy load of onions. Mohammed politely declined, explaining that his Keke was not equipped to carry such heavy loads.

After dropping the passenger off, Mohammed continued his work, picking up school children along the way. It was these school children who noticed a bag left behind in the Keke. Upon inspecting the contents, Mohammed found an astonishing amount—N2.5 million in cash.

But rather than feeling temptation, Mohammed's immediate response was one of responsibility and integrity. Despite his financial struggles, he took the money directly to his boss, Shanwelu, before proceeding to Mallam Garzali at the Jalingo market. It was there that news of his honesty spread, and the incident was broadcast on Rock FM Jalingo's Mai Keke program.

Soon enough, the owner of the money—a businessman who dealt in food grains—was located. The man had been in a rush to travel, and, understandably, he was deeply grateful. Though he declined to be interviewed, his appreciation for Mohammed's selflessness was clear.

In his own words, Mohammed explained his decision: "In as much as I don't have money, because even the Keke I'm driving isn't mine, I didn't feel the need to take what doesn't belong to me. That's why I returned the money."

This simple yet powerful act of returning such a substantial amount of money is a testament to Mohammed Bello's integrity. In a time where many may have succumbed to temptation, Mohammed's unwavering honesty set him apart as a role model for young people everywhere. His actions remind us that true character is not defined by how much we have, but by how we choose to act when faced with the opportunity to do what is right.

In 2024, Mohammed Bello's act of selflessness deserves recognition. His actions have made him a hero, not only in Jalingo but across the nation. By returning N2.5 million, Mohammed has proven that honesty is still alive and well, even in the face of financial hardship. This year, we celebrate him as our Man of the Year, a shining example of integrity, humility, and the unwavering belief that doing the right thing is always the best choice.