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Tinubu Congratulates Man Whose Family Abused Naira, Misused Police Escort

Tinubu Congratulates Man Whose Family Abused Naira, Misused Police Escort
  • PublishedJanuary 12, 2025

 

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Chief Rasaq Okoya, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist, as he marks his 85th birthday.

Tinubu, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, praised the Chairman of Eleganza Group for his exceptional contributions to the Nigerian economy and society at large.

“For over six decades, your endeavours and achievements have inspired countless businesses to succeed and significantly contributed to the growth of the Nigerian economy. The companies and industries you established have created jobs for thousands of Nigerians,” Tinubu stated.

The President lauded Okoya’s philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and spirituality, noting that his generosity in providing scholarships has transformed numerous lives.

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However, Chief Okoya’s milestone celebration comes amid controversy, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned his sons, Wahab and Subomi Okoya, over alleged naira abuse. A viral video surfaced showing the brothers flaunting bundles of N1,000 notes in a promotional video for a new song.

The clip also featured a police officer holding wads of cash while the brothers danced, spraying the naira notes in violation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act.

The EFCC, in a letter signed by Michael Wetkas, Acting Director of its Lagos Directorate, directed the brothers to appear for questioning on January 13, 2025, at the commission’s Lagos office.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has detained the officer involved, with Force PRO, Muyiwa Adejobi, condemning the act as unethical and announcing disciplinary action against the officer.

In recent times, celebrities and socialites have faced similar charges. In April 2024, popular social media figures Bobrisky and Cubana Chief Priest were arrested and charged by the EFCC for allegedly defacing and abusing the naira.