Nollywood actress and entrepreneur, Iyabo Ojo, has taken to her social media to warn fellow Nigerians about the implications of spraying money at events. In her words “Honestly, many of us are not aware it is a crime, but ignorance is not an excuse before the law,”.
In a candid video posted on her Instagram, the actress revealed that she recently received an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) while she was in the United Kingdom.
According to her, the invitation was in connection with allegations of currency abuse, particularly relating to a video of her spraying naira notes at her daughter’s wedding. She added that, the invitation was a wake up call for her and others in the entertainment industry.
In recent times, the EFCC has been handling more of issues involving currency abuse and money laundering. Popular socialite Cubana Chief Priest was arrested earlier this year and is currently facing trial for allegedly violating the Central Bank Act by spraying naira at social gatherings. Additionally, E-money was recently arrested for a similar offense. The agency has reiterated its commitment to upholding financial regulations and clamping down on lavish displays of wealth that flout national laws.
Iyabo explained that the EFCC’s invitation reached her while she was still in the UK for a film-related engagement. “As soon as I landed in Nigeria yesterday, the first thing I did was to visit their office and honour the invitation. I had nothing to hide,” she said.
During her interrogation at the EFCC office in Lagos, Iyabo shared that she was shown clips from different events where she had allegedly abused the naira by spraying it in public. “They were very professional,” she recounted. “They asked about the sources of the funds, the reasons for spraying, and if I was aware of the legal implications.” Iyabo’s legal team was present and clarified that she had no prior knowledge that such actions were considered criminal under Nigerian law. “We emphasized that there was no intention to disrespect the currency,” one of her lawyers added. Iyabo also stated: “I was just celebrating like everyone else. But now I know better, and I accept that it was wrong.”
Following her release, Iyabo has taken it upon herself to educate others. “I know many people think it’s harmless fun, but the truth is, spraying money in public is against the law. Let’s start using money envelopes or bank transfers instead. It’s time we start doing things the right way.”
Iyabo Ojo’s encounter with the EFCC is not just a personal ordeal but a broader lesson for Nigerians who may unknowingly break the law. Her experience serves as a timely reminder that flashy celebrations must still operate within the bounds of legality. “It’s not about shame,” she said. “It’s about change.”