Court Jails 12 for Naira Abuse as EFCC Crackdown Intensifies

A Federal High Court in Warri has convicted and sentenced 12 persons for offences relating to the abuse of the Nigerian currency, reinforcing the Federal Government's campaign against the spraying, mutilation and improper handling of the naira.

The convictions followed prosecutions by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which accused the defendants of violating provisions of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act by spraying and trampling on naira notes during social events.

Convictions Follow Separate Charges

According to the EFCC, the defendants were arraigned on separate one-count charges before the Federal High Court.

They pleaded guilty to the charges after they were read in court.

Following their guilty pleas, the prosecution urged the court to convict and sentence them in accordance with the law, while the defence pleaded for leniency.

The presiding judge subsequently found the defendants guilty and imposed various penalties, including fines and terms of imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of each case.

Why Naira Abuse Is an Offence

Under the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, it is an offence to abuse the naira by:

• Spraying banknotes at parties or ceremonies.

• Stepping or dancing on naira notes.

• Mutilating, tearing or defacing currency.

• Selling or trading naira notes.

Authorities say these practices reduce the lifespan of banknotes, increase replacement costs and undermine the dignity of the national currency.

EFCC Intensifies Enforcement

The latest convictions are part of a broader nationwide enforcement campaign by the EFCC.

Over the past year, the commission has prosecuted several high-profile individuals and dozens of other suspects for similar offences, warning that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defence.

The agency has repeatedly advised Nigerians to celebrate responsibly without spraying or damaging the country's currency.

Public Reactions

The renewed enforcement has generated mixed reactions.

While many Nigerians support protecting the integrity of the naira, others have called for greater public education on what constitutes currency abuse, arguing that many people remain unaware that common party traditions such as spraying money can lead to criminal prosecution.

Legal experts, however, note that the law has long prohibited such practices and that stricter enforcement is intended to promote respect for Nigeria's legal tender.

Government's Position

The Federal Government has continued to stress that preserving the integrity of the naira is essential to maintaining confidence in the country's financial system.

Officials say the campaign is not intended to discourage celebrations but to ensure that Nigerians handle the national currency responsibly and in accordance with the law.

The EFCC has urged members of the public to familiarise themselves with the provisions of the CBN Act to avoid actions that could result in arrest and prosecution.