Comedian AY quizzed by EFCC for spraying naira
Hannah Johnson
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| Comedian AY |
AY expressed his gratitude for the outcome of the encounter, stating, “I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance. On Monday, I was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies, an act that has been classified as an offense related to the abuse of the Naira."
The comedian conveyed his sincere appreciation to the EFCC and other relevant authorities for their understanding and for ultimately granting him a pardon. This decision was reportedly based on the confirmation that the money sprayed during the event was not linked to any criminal activity or illicit funds. "I want to sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me pardon based on confirmation that the money being sprayed is not linked to the proceeds of crime or any form of illicit funds," he said.
AY emphasized that the experience had served as a valuable lesson and that he is now personally committed to raising awareness about the importance of respecting and properly handling the Nigerian national currency. "This experience has been a valuable lesson, and I am personally committed to promoting awareness about the proper respect and care for our national currency," he pledged.
Addressing his friends, family, and the general public, AY acknowledged the widespread practice of spraying money at public events in Nigeria, particularly during weddings, funerals, and parties. "To my friends, family, and the general public: We all know that spraying money at public events is a practice common in Nigerian celebrations, especially during weddings, funerals, and parties. It is generally considered a cultural tradition rather than a criminal act," he noted. However, he urged Nigerians to understand that the practice, while culturally ingrained, is in fact a violation of the law. He included informative slides in his post outlining the "Dos and Don'ts" regarding Naira handling.
"It is important to understand that mutilating or abusing the Naira—whether by spraying, tearing, defacing, or mishandling—is not just a cultural practice but also a violation of Nigerian law. Such acts undermine the integrity of our national currency and can have serious legal consequences," AY cautioned.
He concluded by imploring Nigerians to uphold the dignity of the national currency, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of national sovereignty and economic stability. "Let us all strive to uphold the dignity of our currency, which is a symbol of our nation’s sovereignty and economic stability. Respect for the Naira is respect for Nigeria’s future," he declared. "Together, we can promote responsible behaviour and foster a culture of patriotism and integrity.”
AY's case follows closely on the heels of similar scrutiny directed at other public figures. Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo recently confirmed on her Instagram page that she had also been contacted by the EFCC while she was in the United Kingdom. She stated that she had honored the invitation upon her return to Nigeria. Iyabo Ojo appeared before the EFCC on Monday, May 5, 2025, where she was reportedly questioned about aspects of her daughter’s recently concluded wedding ceremony.
Both AY Makun and Iyabo Ojo have since pledged to use their influence to educate Nigerians about the legal ramifications of currency abuse, particularly the acts of publicly spraying, tearing, or defacing the Naira, which are punishable offenses under Section 21 of the CBN Act, 2007. Their commitment to promoting awareness of these laws signals a potential shift in public perception and behavior regarding the handling of the Nigerian currency.