The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested a 24-year-old palm kernel dealer, Ikechukwu, for allegedly abusing the Nigerian currency during his birthday celebration in Enugu State.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the suspect was apprehended following the circulation of a viral video on social media in which he was seen spraying and mutilating naira notes while recording himself in a hotel room during the celebration.
According to sources familiar with the development, the arrest was carried out on Saturday, February 28, 2026, after intelligence operatives traced the suspect’s identity and residence to the Timber Market area of Enugu-Ezike in Enugu State.
Investigators said a preliminary probe was launched immediately after the video surfaced online, leading to the identification of the suspect and his subsequent arrest at his residence.
Upon his arrest, the sum of N81,700, suspected to be part of the naira notes allegedly mutilated during the birthday celebration, was recovered from him.
Authorities said the alleged offence contravenes Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which prohibits the abuse, defacing, spraying, or mutilation of the Nigerian currency.
Officials of the anti-graft agency disclosed that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The arrest comes amid renewed enforcement actions by anti-corruption agencies against individuals involved in the abuse of the national currency, particularly during social events where naira notes are sprayed or mishandled.
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