With the jailing of a popular crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, over the abuse of Naira notes, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has risen up to beam searchlight on highly placed Nigerians that have been abusing the notes and those who have been dollarising the nation’s economy for similar legal action.
Bobrisky was recently jailed for six months for Naira abuse, leading to people accusing the motive of the EFCC of singling out Bobrisky for prosecution, when there were several others who engaged in the act.
Several videos of celebrities engaging in the act have since flooded the internet.
The EFCC, in the statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, appreciated the observation of members of the public, especially on the displays of video recording of abuse of the Naira by some highly placed Nigerians.
“These gestures amply demonstrate rising consciousness of the public to the sanctity of our national currency and the need for collaborative engagement to sustain the tempo.”
The anti-graft agency said however, that going forward, only fresh cases will be attended to.
“To this end, the Commission will always investigate and prosecute anyone involved in the abuse of the Naira.
“Old videos being exhumed and flying around for the attention of the Commission are noted as the Commission is sensitive to the fact that its Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarization of the economy commenced operations on February 7, 2024.
“However, going forward, new videos of such infractions will be investigated and prosecuted.
“At the moment, the Commission is investigating several celebrities involved in Naira abuse.
“Many of them have made useful statements to the Commission and many more have been invited by investigators working on the matter.
“The EFCC will not relent in its no-sacred-cow mode of operations and the public should be wary of running afoul of laws against the crime.”
