EFCC crackdown on currency abuse reignites debate over tradition, legality, and selective enforcement in Nigeria
A Nigerian makeup artist has been sentenced to six months in prison for throwing banknotes during his wedding celebration—an act long embedded in local culture but now at odds with Nigerian law. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said the conviction represents part of a broader push to enforce respect for the naira as the country faces economic challenges.
The Federal High Court in Kano, northern Nigeria, found Abdullahi Musa Huseini, popularly known as “Amuscap,” guilty of publicly defacing Nigerian currency by tossing one hundred 1,000-naira notes during his December wedding. The cash-spraying gesture, a common feature of Nigerian festivities, drew widespread attention after video footage circulated online.
According to the EFCC, Huseini’s actions violated Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which prohibits the abuse, defacement, and mutilation of the naira. While the face value of the money sprayed—roughly 100,000 naira, or $63 USD—was modest, the commission emphasized that the act itself is what warranted punishment.
“The abuse and defacement of the naira is an offense, regardless of the amount or occasion,” the EFCC stated. “This conviction sends a clear message that no one is above the law.”
A Cultural Tradition in Legal Crosshairs
Spraying money is a popular custom at Nigerian weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations. It is seen as a way of honoring celebrants, showing appreciation, or offering good fortune. Guests often step forward during dances or processions to gently toss bills into the air, allowing them to flutter down onto the honored individuals.
But while widely practiced, the ritual is technically illegal. In 2007, the Nigerian government enacted laws criminalizing mishandling of currency in public spaces. The laws have been on the books for years but are only now being vigorously enforced.
That enforcement is drawing scrutiny
“This practice is embedded in our social and cultural life,” said Lagos-based legal analyst Ngozi Eze. “People are shocked that a celebratory act that many grew up watching is now considered a jailable offense.”
Crackdown on Celebrities and Influencers
Huseini is not the first public figure to face legal consequences under this law. In 2024, controversial social media influencer Bobrisky—known for their flamboyant lifestyle and massive online following—was sentenced to six months in prison after spraying money during a movie premiere.
That same year, actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was convicted and jailed for six months when a video surfaced of her spraying and stepping on naira notes at a social gathering. The EFCC released images of her holding the crumpled notes as evidence in court.
Authorities say the crackdown aims to promote financial discipline and protect the symbolic value of the naira as Nigeria battles currency depreciation and inflation. As of early 2025, the naira has lost more than 30% of its value in a year, intensifying public concern over the country’s economic direction.
“Respect for the currency begins with how we handle it,” EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said in a statement. “When people throw naira notes around like confetti, it erodes national pride and undermines the currency’s integrity.”
Selective Enforcement or Symbolic Action?
Despite official explanations, critics argue that enforcement of the anti-spraying law appears selective and inconsistent. While celebrities have been charged, thousands of everyday Nigerians engage in the same behavior at events across the country without consequences.
“There is a perception that these prosecutions are designed more to send a message than to administer justice evenly,” said Dr. Tunde Lawal, a sociologist at the University of Abuja. “It’s unclear why someone at a village wedding would not be targeted, but a popular figure with followers would be.”
Lawal also noted the symbolic nature of the crackdown, suggesting that authorities may be leveraging high-profile convictions to distract from deeper economic issues.
“When inflation is high and the cost of living is unbearable, these prosecutions allow officials to claim they are taking action—even if the actual impact on the economy is negligible.”
Public Reaction: Mixed Opinions
Public reaction to Huseini’s sentencing has been mixed. Some Nigerians expressed outrage on social media, arguing that the government should focus on more pressing issues such as unemployment, power shortages, and insecurity.
“People are hungry, and they’re going after someone who threw some money at his own wedding?” one X (formerly Twitter) user posted. “Talk about misplaced priorities.”
Others, however, defended the EFCC’s move, calling it a necessary step to restore discipline in society.
“If the law exists, it must be enforced,” said Abuja-based banker Ifeanyi Okafor. “The naira is a national symbol. We can’t afford to treat it with disrespect and expect it to retain value.”
Legal Ramifications and Future Implications
Under the CBN Act, defacing or mishandling naira notes is punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both. In Huseini’s case, the judge opted for a custodial sentence, citing the need to deter similar acts in the future.
Legal experts say the growing number of convictions could lead to more lawsuits and appeals, particularly as cultural and legal values continue to clash.
“There’s room for legal reform here,” said attorney Bisi Alao, who specializes in constitutional law. “Lawmakers must consider whether cultural practices should be regulated differently from criminal acts. Right now, the law is criminalizing celebration.”
Conclusion
As the EFCC continues its campaign to uphold the dignity of the naira, the line between cultural expression and criminal conduct remains contentious. While the government argues that respect for national symbols is non-negotiable, critics warn that overzealous enforcement could alienate the very people the law is meant to protect.
For Abdullahi Musa Huseini, the sentence has already been handed down. But the broader question—how far the government should go in regulating tradition—continues to hover over Nigeria’s evolving legal and cultural landscape.
