‘There Are More Serious Issues’, Netizens Bash EFCC Over Arrest Of Lady For Alleged Naira Mutilation

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has come under heavy criticism from Nigerians on social media following the arrest of a woman, Fatima Muhammed, for alleged naira mutilation in Maiduguri, Borno State.

In a statement shared on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, the anti-graft agency disclosed that operatives of its Maiduguri Zonal Directorate arrested Fatima on Tuesday, April 7, 2025.

According to the Commission, the arrest followed a viral TikTok video in which the suspect was seen allegedly using a ₦500 note to clean mucus from her nose—an act considered as abuse and mutilation of the national currency.

“The suspect was arrested following a viral video circulated on TikTok where she was seen cleaning mucus from her nose using N500 naira note,” the EFCC stated.

The agency added that its operatives tracked and apprehended Muhammed within the Maiduguri metropolis, saying she is currently in custody at the Commission’s detention facility, with investigations ongoing.

“The suspect is currently under investigation at the Maiduguri detention facility while investigation is ongoing. She will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” the statement added.

However, the development has sparked widespread backlash online, with many Nigerians accusing the Commission of misplaced priorities.

Among the critics is the chairman of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, who faulted the EFCC’s focus.

“House is on fire, EFCC is chasing rats. Big thieves in government who bribe judges and INEC commissioners to rig elections in Abuja are sacred cows. But small people are exposed for your so-called naira mutilation. Shame to EFCC,” Onwubiko wrote.

Another social media user, Jamilu Abdullahi, questioned the agency’s selective approach, referencing alleged past incidents.

“But what about that naira mutilation that happened in Adamawa when Tinubu visited them? You should’ve removed that eagle from your logo and put Tinubu’s cap design as your new logo,” he said.

Similarly, Adeoluwa Oyinola urged the Commission to refocus on its core responsibilities.

“EFCC should concentrate on its main mandate of economic and financial crimes. This naira mutilation/abuse is a distraction,” he wrote.

Other reactions echoed similar sentiments, with Gwaza Leo Awenya calling on the agency to target criminals involved in more serious offences.

“Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, you can do well to trace those bandits who display and march on ransom collected in the Nigerian naira too,” he said.

Also reacting, Abubakar SI Kankia criticised the arrest as trivial.

“Instead of you to channel your energy and resources in arresting big criminals, na this low-budget clout chaser you’re after,” he wrote.

The EFCC was yet to respond to the growing criticism as of the time of filing this report.