The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has promised to grill former militant warlord, Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, over naira abuse.
The anti-graft agency made this known in a post on 𝕏 on Monday morning.
In the post, the EFCC wrote: “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer!”
CANDID REPORTERS that public scrutiny had hit the EFCC following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing Tompolo—at his birthday celebration, while Naira notes were sprayed in violation of Nigerian currency laws.
The video, posted on Sunday by user Harrison A, who tweets as @harreceipts on X.com, shows Tompolo dancing as a man sprays ₦1,000 notes before him during his 54th birthday party, reportedly held in April.
The incident triggered an online debate, with many Nigerians questioning whether the EFCC will extend its recent enforcement efforts to Tompolo, or ignore the viral footage due to his political and social influence.
Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 (as amended) clearly states:
“Spraying of, dancing or matching on the Naira or any note issued by the bank during social occasions or otherwise howsoever shall constitute an abuse and defacing of the Naira or such note and shall be punishable under the law by fines or imprisonment or both.”
The EFCC has repeatedly warned the public that defacing or spraying the Naira constitutes a criminal offence. In recent months, the agency has made several high-profile arrests and prosecutions to that effect.
In April 2024, controversial influencer Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, was sentenced to six months in prison without an option of fine for similar offences. Shortly after, Lagos socialite Emeka “E-Money” Okonkwo was arrested for allegedly spraying both Naira and foreign currencies.
Just last week, popular actress Iyabo Ojo and comedian Ayo Makun (AY) were also invited for questioning by the EFCC over alleged currency abuse. In January, billionaire heirs Wahab and Raheem Okoya were summoned after featuring in a promotional video where Naira notes were openly sprayed.
With Tompolo’s video now trending, Nigerians aquestioned the EFCC’s consistency in enforcing the law.
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