Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin jailed for spraying money… here’s why you shouldn’t abuse naira

Renowned actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin has been handed a six-month jail sentence by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos. The conviction stems from her act of stepping on and spraying new Naira notes at a social gathering in Lagos. 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) revealed this development in a statement on its X page. Initially pleading “not guilty” to the two-count charges on February 13, 2023, Omoseyin later changed her plea to “guilty” during the resumed hearing, acknowledging overwhelming evidence against her. 

Operative Abubakar Mohammed Marafa presented key facts, including her arrest by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the discovery of incriminating videos on her phone. Subsequently, Judge Aneke delivered the verdict, offering the actress the option to pay a fine of N300,000.00 into the Federation’s Consolidated Revenue Account.

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Marafa recalled that “the defendant was arrested by officers of the  ICPC on February 1, 2023, and was handed over to the Commission on February 2, 2023, for further investigation.“

“The defendant was processed and the videos of where she sprayed the money was found on her phone. Also, further investigations were carried out and the management of the event centre was invited. They also brought in the video footage of the said event.”

Here are some key points to consider why you shouldn’t abuse naira:

As a Nigerian, there are several reasons why you shouldn’t abuse the Naira, the national currency of Nigeria. 

Legal Consequences

According to the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007, “Spraying” of, soiling, stepping on the Naira, and any other forms of abuse are punishable offenses. This means that individuals who abuse the Naira could face legal consequences such as fines or imprisonment.

Cultural Significance

The Naira is not just a medium of exchange but also carries cultural significance. Abusing the currency is seen as disrespectful and can be regarded as a disregard for the nation’s heritage and pride.

Economic Stability

The stability of a country’s currency is vital for economic growth and development. Abusing the Naira, such as tearing, writing on, or defacing it, can contribute to its devaluation and undermine the overall stability of the economy.

Symbol of National Identity

The Naira serves as a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty and national identity. By preserving the integrity of the currency, individuals contribute to upholding the country’s identity and promoting national pride.

Respect for the Nation

Showing respect for the country’s currency is a reflection of one’s respect for the nation as a whole. It showcases a sense of patriotism and appreciation for the institutions and symbols that represent the nation.

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It’s important for Nigerians to refrain from abusing the Naira due to the legal consequences, its cultural significance, impact on economic stability, symbol of national identity, and as a means of showing respect for the nation.