Security Guard Returns Lost $9,100 to FCMB Customer
A security guard in Lagos, Adebanjo Samuel, has become the center of a heated online debate after returning a customer's lost $9,100 (approximately ₦12 million) instead of keeping the money. Samuel, employed by Proton Security Service Limited and deployed to a First City Monument Bank (FCMB) branch in Marina, Lagos, found the cash while on duty on May 25, 2026.
Immediate Action and Employer's Response
According to Proton Security, Samuel ensured the money was returned to its rightful owner without delay. The company described his actions as an outstanding demonstration of integrity. In response, the security firm announced that Samuel would be honored and rewarded for his honesty at a special civic reception.
Samuel explained his decision: "It is not about the amount; it is about the principle. I was raised to be truthful and to do what is right irrespective of the circumstances. Even if the money had been much more, I would still have returned it. Integrity is something I believe should never be compromised."
The Managing Director of Proton Security Service Limited, Odebunmi Adekunmi, praised Samuel's conduct: "This act of honesty reflects the principles upon which our organisation was built and the standards we expect from every member of our workforce."
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Despite the commendation, Samuel's action has divided opinions online. Many Nigerians debated whether he made the right decision given the country's current economic realities. Some users argued that the money could have transformed his life.
One social media user wrote: "Money that could have changed your life from security guard to something else. Such a BIG FOOL." Another commented: "Na poverty go kill am."
Others defended Samuel, insisting that honesty should never be sacrificed regardless of the amount. One user wrote: "Good name is more than gold or silver. Kudos to him for choosing integrity and honesty over anything else." Another added: "This is very good of him. If I found it, I will also return it. Let us be a good citizen. God bless Nigeria."
Broader Conversation on Integrity
The incident has continued to generate conversations across social media, with many Nigerians split between those who believe integrity is priceless and others who insist the difficult economic situation would have made returning such a huge amount almost impossible. While opinions remain divided, Proton Security has maintained that Samuel's action reflects the values it seeks to instil in its personnel and deserves recognition.
