The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into Okorie Sunday, who was apprehended at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, for allegedly smuggling $578,000 into the country without proper declaration.
Sunday was arrested by officials of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) upon arrival from Johannesburg, South Africa, on Wednesday.
He had initially declared only $279,000 at the currency declaration desk but was later found with an additional $299,000 concealed in separate packages, prompting his detention.
Authorities also discovered €100 and a counterfeit $250 note in his possession.
Confirming the development on Saturday in Abuja, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale stated that the suspect was handed over to the commission on Friday by the Customs Area Comptroller at the airport, Effiong Harrison.
Oyewale added that investigations were ongoing and that Sunday would be charged to court upon conclusion.
Speaking at the handover, EFCC’s acting zonal director in Lagos, Ahmed Ghali, praised the customs service for its vigilance and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling financial crimes.
Ghali further reminded the public that Nigerian law mandates travelers to declare any amount above $10,000 when entering or leaving the country to ensure transparency and prevent illicit financial activities.
“We will not permit any action that sabotages the economy or financial system, as such conduct increases the risk of money laundering and economic instability,” he warned.
The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to upholding financial regulations and has urged Nigerians to comply with currency declaration laws to avoid legal consequences.
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