Bobrisky, Cubana Chief Priest… Nigerians jailed, tried for spraying naira at events

In Nigeria, spraying money, especially the naira, is deeply woven into the fabric of celebrations. From weddings to birthday parties, it is not unusual to see young men and women flinging naira notes in the air as a sign of joy, success, or wealth. The act is often seen as a cultural symbol of generosity and celebration, especially among the youth who love to “show off” in grand style.

What many do not realizse is that publicly spraying or mishandling naira notes is a criminal offence, punishable under Nigerian law.

Understanding the Law on Spraying the Naira

The act of spraying or mishandling the naira is a punishable offence under the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, specifically Section 21 (3–5). This section states that any person who sprays, writes on, stamps, mutilates, or in any other form abuses the naira currency risks facing legal consequences. The law criminalizes behaviors that deface or dishonor the naira, treating the currency as a national symbol that must be protected from ridicule or misuse.

According to the Act, offenders are liable upon conviction to a fine not less than ₦50,000 or a term of imprisonment not less than six months, or both.

 The provision gives law enforcement agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) the authority to arrest and prosecute individuals found engaging in such acts. The law was enacted to curb abuse of the national currency, often seen during social events and on social media platforms.

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Nigerians Convicted for Spraying Money in Public

In recent times, at least four Nigerians have been publicly arraigned or convicted for currency abuse. Their cases have sparked debates across the country, especially among youths, many of whom argue the law targets harmless celebration while corrupt individuals go free.

• Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, was sentenced in April 2024 to six months in prison without the option of a fine. The controversial figure was convicted for spraying money at a movie premiere and was also found guilty of flaunting the act on social media. The EFCC described the action as a direct violation of the anti-defacement provision of the CBN Act.
• Nollywood actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was arrested and convicted in February 2024 after a video showed her stepping on and spraying naira notes at a party. She pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment with the option of a ₦300,000 fine. Her conviction was one of the earliest in EFCC’s recent crackdown campaign.
• Pascal Okechukwu, better known as Cubana Chief Priest, was arraigned by the EFCC in April 2024 for allegedly spraying money at public events in both Lagos and Imo States. Although he was not convicted at the time, he was granted bail in the sum of ₦10 million. His trial is still ongoing and has attracted national attention due to his celebrity status.
• Most recently, Abdullahi Musa a make-up artist known on social media as “Amuscap”, was sentenced some days ago April 2025 to six months’ imprisonment by a high court in Kano. He pleaded guilty to the charge of “abusing the naira” by spraying ₦100,000 while dancing at his wedding in December 2024. His swift sentencing has reignited debates around the fairness and proportionality of the law.

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How to Avoid Violating the Naira Abuse Law

To avoid falling foul of the law and to protect yourself from the serious consequences of currency abuse, it is essential to be mindful of the legal framework surrounding the naira. Here are key practices to consider:

• Do not spray or throw naira notes during events
• Avoid stepping on or dancing over fallen currency
• Educate guests and family about the legal risks before your event
• Refrain from posting videos that show currency abuse online

Creative Alternatives to Spraying Cash at Events

Here are exciting ways to show love and support without breaking the law:

• Money Bouquets or Envelopes: Present your gift stylishly and respectfully without making it rain.
• Bank Transfers with Shout outs: Celebrate your generosity by sending money and letting the MC announce it.
• Customized Gift Cards: Hand over personalized cards or printed cheques, classy and lawful.
• Physical Gifts: Hampers, electronics, homewares, or traditional items show thoughtfulness too.
• Performance Over Currency: Hire drummers, dancers, or entertainers to wow guests with energy not naira.

By following these alternatives and being mindful of the law, individuals can enjoy celebrating and showing appreciation at public events while staying compliant with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s regulations. Respecting national symbols, like the naira, is crucial in upholding the country’s laws and ensuring responsible public behavior.