The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Sunday that it is conducting an investigation into the involvement of several celebrities in cases of Naira abuse.
The EFCC acknowledged being aware of viral videos circulating online depicting individuals mistreating the Nigerian currency.
According to Dele Oyewale, the spokesperson for the EFCC, some of these celebrities have been summoned by the Commission and have provided useful statements regarding the matter.
Furthermore, the anti-graft agency commended the public for raising awareness about the importance of respecting the national currency.
A statement released by the EFCC reads in part:
“On the issue of the works of the commission against Naira abuse, dollarization of the economy, and the enforcement of all extant laws relating to them, the EFCC appreciates the avalanche of public awakening, support, and involvement demonstrated so far.
“Increasingly, members of the public are drawing the attention of the Commission to video recording of abuse of the Naira by Nigerians from all walks of life. These gestures amply demonstrate rising consciousness of the public to the sanctity of our national currency and the need for collaborative engagement to sustain the tempo.
“To this end, the Commission will always investigate and prosecute anyone involved in the abuse of the Naira. Old videos being exhumed and flying around for the attention of the Commission are noted as the Commission is sensitive to the fact that its Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarization of the economy commenced operations on February 7, 2024. However, going forward, new videos of such infractions will be investigated and prosecuted.
“At the moment, the Commission is investigating several celebrities involved in Naira abuse. Many of them have made useful statements to the Commission and many more have been invited by investigators working on the matter.
“The EFCC will not relent in its no-sacred-cow mode of operations and the public should be wary of running afoul of laws against the crime,”
