Social Media Influencer Bukola Rufai Convicted for Naira Abuse

A Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, has convicted social media influencer Bukola Arike Rufai for abusing Nigerian currency, the naira. Rufai, along with Abdulateef Ayinde Jimoh, was prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for currency mutilation.

The EFCC arraigned the duo on a one-count charge bordering on currency mutilation after they posted a video of themselves spraying and trampling on naira notes on TikTok. Both defendants pleaded guilty to the charge. Following their guilty pleas, the prosecution counsel, Lanre Suleiman, reviewed the facts of the case, tendered incriminating evidence, and prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.

Defense counsel O.D. Ajadi urged the court to temper justice with mercy, stating that the duo are first offenders and have become remorseful of their actions. Justice Uche Agomoh convicted both offenders without a sentence, giving them a N50,000 option of fine each.

This recent conviction highlights the EFCC's ongoing efforts to crack down on naira abuse. In recent times, the commission has intensified its efforts to enforce the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which prohibits the abuse and mutilation of the naira. The EFCC's campaign against naira abuse aims to promote a sense of pride and confidence in the national currency while reducing currency management costs.

The CBN Act stipulates that anyone found guilty of abusing or mutilating the naira can face six months imprisonment or a fine of N50,000. The law prohibits various forms of naira abuse, including spraying, writing on banknotes, stapling, tearing, dancing or stamping on naira notes, selling currency banknotes, and mutilation.

Naira abuse has significant implications, including increased currency management costs, slowed sorting processes, erosion of national pride, and potential health hazards. The EFCC's efforts to curb this practice are crucial in maintaining the dignity and integrity of the national currency.

This case serves as a deterrent to others who may engage in similar acts. Social media influencers, in particular, have a significant impact on their followers and should be mindful of their actions. By abusing the naira, they not only risk facing legal consequences but also set a bad example for their audience.

The EFCC's crackdown on naira abuse has led to several high-profile convictions, including that of controversial crossdresser Idris Olarewaju Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months imprisonment for abusing the naira. Other celebrities, such as Lagos socialite Emeka Okonkwo Daniel, popularly known as E-Money, actress Iyabo Ojo, and comedian Ayo Makun (AY), have also been arrested and quizzed by the EFCC over allegations relating to currency spraying.

As the EFCC continues its efforts to enforce the CBN Act and promote responsible behavior, Nigerians are reminded of the importance of handling the national currency with care and respect. By working together, we can maintain the dignity and integrity of the naira and promote a sense of national pride.