EFCC joins meerkat meme trend to warn against spraying naira at events — what to know

Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has added a humorous twist to its public sensitization efforts by jumping on the viral meerkat meme trend that has swept through Nigerian social media.

In a post shared via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the commission issued a witty but stern warning against the act of spraying money at events, a practice it considers illegal.

The meme features the image of a suspicious-looking meerkat with the caption: “Me looking at you saying spraying money is our culture.” This single post not only added the EFCC’s voice to one of the most engaging social media trends in the country but also reignited conversations around the legality of currency abuse and the tension between cultural practices and financial laws.

The move marks a shift in how regulatory agencies in Nigeria are beginning to communicate with the public. By engaging humorously with digital culture, the EFCC has demonstrated a keen awareness of online trends and a desire to remain relevant in public discourse—especially among younger Nigerians who consume most of their information through memes, skits, and social media.

How the Meerkat Meme Went Viral in Nigeria

The meerkat meme, which features a small, wide-eyed animal peeking suspiciously or appearing overly alert, has become one of the most viral visual trends in Nigeria in recent weeks. Originating from global meme culture, the meerkat image became localized as Nigerians used it to sarcastically call out everything from hypocrisy to social double standards. The format typically involves text overlays that depict someone watching another person behave inappropriately or contradictorily.

Nigerians have used the meme to comment on everything from election rigging and cheating partners to government hypocrisy and corruption. It’s easy to create, instantly relatable, and packs the perfect punch of satire and sarcasm. Within days of going viral, even corporate brands, influencers, and government agencies began adopting the format to push their messages.

For the EFCC to adopt this meme shows how powerful internet culture has become in shaping public discourse. Rather than sticking to press releases or formal language, the agency has chosen to join the online banter while embedding serious warnings in an informal tone. This approach not only makes the message more palatable but increases its chances of being widely shared, discussed, and remembered.

Why Spraying Naira Is Illegal Despite Cultural Arguments

While the act of spraying money—especially at weddings, naming ceremonies, or chieftaincy titles—has long been a part of Nigerian celebratory culture, it is in fact illegal under Nigerian law. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), through Section 21 of the CBN Act of 2007, makes it a punishable offence to abuse the country’s legal tender in any form. Subsection 3 specifically prohibits spraying, marching on, or mutilating the Naira, stating clearly that such actions “constitute an abuse and defacement of the currency.”

The CBN and EFCC maintain that the cultural practice, no matter how widespread, must not override the law. Currency abuse is seen as not just disrespectful but also economically damaging, as it often renders notes unfit for circulation. There are also concerns about encouraging financial recklessness and glorifying money in ways that erode national values.

Critics argue that since spraying money is deeply woven into social functions and often interpreted as a sign of affluence or appreciation, it should be preserved as a cultural tradition. However, the EFCC insists that cultural defense does not exempt citizens from legal consequences. The enforcement of this law is now stricter than ever, with several high-profile arrests serving as deterrents.

Top Nigerian Figures Arrested or Sanctioned for Spraying Money

Over the years, several celebrities and public figures have been arrested, charged, or publicly warned for spraying the Naira at events. These cases have reignited national conversations around currency abuse and the consequences of disregarding financial laws.

In April 2024, nightlife promoter and businessman Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, was arraigned by the EFCC on charges of naira abuse. He was accused of spraying money at a social function, a violation caught on camera and circulated widely on social media. Though he pleaded not guilty, the case became a media spectacle, drawing support from fans and criticism from legal observers who insisted on equal enforcement of the law.

Also in 2024, popular crossdresser Bobrisky (Idris Okuneye) was sentenced to six months imprisonment without the option of a fine after being convicted for spraying money at public events. The sentencing was hailed by the EFCC as a milestone in curbing currency abuse, and the case was widely publicized as a warning to others.

Additionally, the EFCC has revealed that several other socialites, musicians, and influencers are under investigation or surveillance for similar actions. Some have been invited for questioning while others have received formal warnings. This marks a clear departure from the previous era where such actions went unchecked due to the social status of offenders.

The EFCC’s Meme Strategy and the Rise of Digital Public Awareness

The EFCC’s engagement with the meerkat meme reflects a strategic evolution in how law enforcement agencies relate with the public in a digital-first society. Recognizing that younger Nigerians are more active on social media than they are with traditional media like newspapers or TV, the commission has begun experimenting with humor, memes, skits, and real-time responses on platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram.

By combining law enforcement with entertainment and pop culture, the EFCC is reaching a demographic that would otherwise ignore press briefings or long-form policy documents. This move also allows the commission to humanize its brand, making it less intimidating and more approachable, even when delivering serious messages.

This strategy mirrors global trends where law enforcement and government bodies use TikTok trends, GIFs, and memes to communicate issues like cybercrime, traffic laws, and public health measures. In Nigeria, where memes form a vital part of the daily online language, such creative communication is both timely and effective.

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Cultural Practices vs Legal Responsibility: Finding the Balance

The backlash following the EFCC’s crackdown on naira spraying often stems from a cultural disconnect. Many Nigerians, especially from the Yoruba and Igbo ethnic groups, view money spraying as a legitimate way to show appreciation, support, or celebrate an individual during ceremonies. It is not uncommon for celebrants to expect this display of generosity, and for hosts to even announce special segments for “money rain” during events.

However, legal experts maintain that no cultural tradition is above the law, and the responsibility lies with individuals to adapt their celebrations within the confines of legality. They advise alternative practices such as placing money in designated envelopes or gift boxes, using mobile transfers, or engaging professional ushers who collect donations respectfully.

Religious leaders, traditional rulers, and event organizers are now being encouraged to educate guests ahead of events, ensuring compliance while maintaining the celebratory spirit. In the long run, finding a sustainable balance between preserving culture and enforcing legal standards will require more than memes—it will demand consistent dialogue, public reorientation, and institutional support.

Meerkat: A Meme with a Message That Matters

The EFCC’s viral meerkat meme post has done more than just spark laughter—it has brought back critical attention to a legal issue often overlooked under the guise of cultural celebration. By creatively engaging with a viral trend, the commission has shown adaptability, digital savvy, and a new kind of civic engagement strategy. As memes continue to dominate online expression in Nigeria, they also become tools for education, enforcement, and, perhaps, transformation.

In a country where institutions often struggle with trust and visibility, blending humor with civic messaging may just be the magic formula. And if the goal is to protect the Naira and instill a culture of respect for national symbols, then every meme—so long as it’s backed by truth and relevance—counts.