Ten Convicted for Naira Abuse in Delta and Edo State

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of 10 individuals for the illegal spraying and mutilation of the naira in Delta and Edo states.

The convictions were handed down by the Federal High Courts in Asaba and Benin City, following charges brought by the commission’s Benin Zonal Directorate. The individuals were found to have violated Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act of 2007, which prohibits the abuse of the national currency, particularly at social gatherings.

During the proceedings, all 10 defendants pleaded guilty to the charges.

Justice F. A. Olubanjo of the Federal High Court, Asaba, sentenced eight of the defendants Lucky Onoberhie, Happy Joseph Isioma, Friday Ehiedu, Collins Ndudi Albert, Okorie Builder, Ernest Achieme, Isicheli Desmond Chijioke, and Nwosu Davison to 12 months imprisonment each, with an option of a N100,000 fine.

In a separate session, Justice (Prof.) C. A. Obiozor of the Federal High Court, Benin City, sentenced the remaining two defendants, Enadegh Agbonmware and Lucky Osaro, to six months imprisonment each, also with an option of a N100,000 fine.

As part of their sentencing, all 10 convicts were required to sign written undertakings to maintain good behavior.

This development is part of the EFCC’s ongoing enforcement campaign against currency abuse. The commission has repeatedly issued public warnings that the act of spraying, stepping on, or mutilating the naira at parties and other events remains a criminal offense subject to legal prosecution.