The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has said that its Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarisation of the economy will investigate and prosecute cases of naira abuse committed after February 7, 2024.
EFCC Spokesman, Dele Oyewale disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
The anti-graft commission’s stance comes a few days after it successfully prosecuted a popular crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky.
Recall that Bobrisky bagged a six-month jail term with no option of fine over the abuse and mutilation of the naira on Friday, April 12.
Since his sentencing, many Nigerians have been drawing the EFCC’s attention to old videos showing celebrities spraying naira notes at events.
Reacting, the EFCC spokesman said the commission 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,” Oyewale said.
He added, “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 Dollarisation of the Economy commenced operations on February 7, 2024.
“However, going forward, new videos of such infractions will be investigated and prosecuted,” the EFCC said.
Oyewale disclosed that the commission is currently 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,” he said.
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