Ibadan Court Convicts Influencers Over Viral Naira Abuse Video

The Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, has convicted two social media influencers, Bukola Arike Rufai and Abdulateef Ayinde Jimoh, for the abuse and mutilation of Nigerian currency.

Justice Uche Agomoh delivered the ruling on a one-count charge brought against the duo by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charge bordered on the willful abuse of Naira notes, contrary to Section 21(3) and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

According to the EFCC, the offence occurred on or about September 25, 2024, when Rufai and Jimoh were captured in a viral TikTok video, spraying and trampling on Naira notes—actions considered illegal under Nigerian financial laws.

Upon arraignment, both defendants pleaded guilty. Prosecuting counsel, Lanre Suleiman, reviewed the facts of the case and presented incriminating evidence before urging the court to convict and impose appropriate penalties.

Defence counsel, O.D. Ajadi, appealed for leniency, describing the pair as first-time offenders who have shown remorse.

In her ruling, Justice Agomoh convicted both individuals and imposed a fine of N50,000 each, opting not to impose custodial sentences.

The case underscores growing efforts by authorities to clamp down on currency abuse, particularly among public figures and online personalities.