Mr. Suleiman Adekambi, a tricycle operator in Lagos, has once again proven that integrity can still be found in everyday life. The veteran driver returned an Android phone that had been left in his vehicle by a passenger, Mr. Godwin Omoh, a staff member of The Guardian newspaper, without expecting anything in return.
The incident unfolded yesterday when Omoh boarded Adekambi’s tricycle from Jakande Estate Gate in Isolo to Toyota on his commute to work. Upon arrival, Omoh realized his phone was missing and quickly dialed the number, hoping it had not been taken by someone else. To his relief, Adekambi answered, confirming he had the phone and promised to return it on his way back to Toyota.
Minutes later, Adekambi, true to his word, arrived and handed the phone back to Omoh, identifying him by his clothes. When Omoh gratefully offered a reward, Adekambi declined, insisting his actions were simply a matter of principle.
In an interview with The Guardian, Adekambi shared, “This isn’t the first time. The first incident involved a passenger who forgot their Microsoft laptop, which I also returned.” Since then, he has continued to return lost items, including phones and other personal belongings, to their rightful owners, often refusing compensation for his goodwill.
“I’m not doing it for the money; I’m doing it from the goodness of my heart,” Adekambi remarked, underscoring his commitment to helping others regardless of any personal gain.
What’s even more remarkable is that Adekambi’s integrity has remained unshaken, despite experiencing theft himself. He revealed that he has had his own phone stolen by passengers on multiple occasions. Yet, he remains committed to doing good. “Even if passengers have stolen my phone several times, my goal remains to do good,” he said resolutely.
Adekambi’s selflessness and commitment to integrity serve as a powerful reminder of the kindness that still exists in everyday life.
