Naira Abuse: CSOs Petition EFCC, Police, ICPC Against Okpebholo  

A coalition of civil society organizations under the aegis of the Network of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the forthcoming September 21 governorship election in Edo State over alleged abuse of the Naira.

In a petition dated May 2, 2024, jointly signed by National Coordinator, Comrade Victor Kalu, and National Secretary, Alh. Ali Abatcha, a copy of was sighted by LEADERSHIP, the coalition highlighted the offence of Naira abuse and mutilation, cited in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act of 2007, declaring such actions as punishable offences.

The group also petitioned the Nigerian Police Force and the Independent and Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC).

The group emphasised that the spraying or matching on the Naira notes during social occasions is a clear violation of the law.

They expressed disappointment that prominent individuals, including lawmakers, have violated the provision of the CBN Act.

They, however, commended the EFCC for its swift response in arresting and charging individuals who have been caught on viral videos abusing and defacing the Naira at social events.

Also, they specifically mentioned the cases of Mr. Okuneye Idris Olarewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, and Mr. Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, who have faced legal consequences for their actions.

While praising the EFCC for its actions, the coalition demanded that all individuals captured in viral videos abusing the Naira should be promptly arrested and brought to justice, as no one is above the law.

In their demands, the coalition called the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to investigate the viral video involving Senator Monday Okpebholo, who is seen engaging in Naira abuse and mutilation, saying the lawmaker should be held accountable for his actions as a representative of the people.

Failure to address the viral video involving the Senator, the group said it would take further actions by mobilising their members, supporters, and democracy advocates for a peaceful protest against the EFCC, citing selective action and bias.

“We would pursue legal action against the EFCC for negligence in the face of undeniable evidence and to seek a judicial interpretation of Section 21 (3) of the CBN Act 2007 (As Amended) as it pertains to the video evidence of Senator Okpebholo abusing and defacing the Naira,” they stated.