CurrentReport Blog The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kano State has arrested popular TikTok influencer Murja Ibrahim Kunya on charges of Naira mutilation and abuse. The arrest comes after Kunya was allegedly involved in the controversial act of spraying money, which is considered a violation of Nigerian law.
A source within the EFCC confirmed the arrest to Freedom Radio Kano, revealing that Murja Ibrahim Kunya is currently in EFCC custody while investigations continue. The arrest highlights the increasing crackdown on individuals engaging in the illegal practice of spraying money at social events, including parties and birthday celebrations, which has raised significant concerns in Nigeria over the abuse of the nation’s currency.
Naira Mutilation and Nigerian Law
Spraying money, a common practice at celebratory events, involves throwing or showering currency notes onto people or the floor. This act is often seen in parties or celebrations as a display of wealth. However, under Nigerian law, particularly the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, it is illegal to mutilate or abuse the national currency. Section 21 of the CBN Act prohibits the defacing, burning, or spraying of Naira notes. Those found guilty of engaging in such activities can face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.
The EFCC has been increasingly vigilant about this violation, making it clear that they will not tolerate any form of Naira mutilation. The arrest of Murja Ibrahim Kunya follows a series of similar arrests involving other TikTok influencers. Recently, the EFCC also detained Al’amin G-Fresh and Ashir Idris, two other social media personalities, for the same charges related to the unlawful spraying of money at public events.
Crackdown on Influencers and Money Mutilation
The EFCC’s actions are part of an ongoing effort to curb the growing trend of money spraying at public gatherings, especially among young social media influencers who have large followings. The act of spraying money has become a viral trend on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers and celebrities often showcase their wealth by spraying cash at parties or public events.
Despite its popularity, the practice has been met with growing criticism and legal action due to its potential impact on the value and integrity of Nigeria’s currency. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has consistently warned against the defacement and abuse of Naira notes, urging citizens to respect the national currency.
Legal Repercussions and Public Reaction
As of now, neither the EFCC nor Murja Ibrahim Kunya’s legal representatives have issued an official statement regarding the arrest or the ongoing investigation. However, the crackdown on money spraying has sparked a broader debate about the role of social media influencers and the responsibilities they hold in shaping public behavior.
Many Nigerians have voiced their support for the EFCC’s stance, arguing that the practice of money spraying encourages financial irresponsibility and undermines the value of the Naira. On the other hand, some critics have expressed concerns about the growing trend of arresting individuals for such actions, questioning whether the EFCC’s focus on social media influencers is warranted.
The arrest of Murja Ibrahim Kunya serves as a reminder of the growing efforts by the EFCC to enforce laws surrounding Naira mutilation and the spraying of money. As Nigeria continues to face economic challenges, the government has made it clear that any activity that compromises the integrity of the national currency will not be tolerated. With the EFCC’s ongoing crackdown on money spraying, individuals, especially social media influencers, are being urged to be more mindful of their actions and their legal implications.
The outcome of Murja Ibrahim Kunya’s case may set a precedent for future actions against those involved in similar activities, as Nigeria continues to address the issue of currency abuse and social media trends.
