Actions That Can Get You Imprisoned Over Improper Handling Of Naira

Following the imprisonment of popular crossdresser, Idris Olarewaju Okuneye, also known as Bobrisky, for abusing the naira, Osun Defender presents a list of nine actions involving the naira that could lead to legal consequences.

Justice Abimbola Awogboro said the sentencing of Bobrisky, would be a deterrent to others who are found abusing and mutilating the naira.

He said the bank would strive to sustain its efforts in ensuring the availability of the naira at all times for transactions.

The Clean Notes Policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria was implemented with the aim of enhancing the visual appeal and durability of the banknotes in circulation, as stated on the official website of the apex bank.

According to the CBN, the objective is to guarantee that the naira banknotes in circulation maintain a high standard of quality, enabling them to be easily processed and accepted by the general public.

While urging mem bers of the public against spraying, hawking, mutilating, or counterfeiting the naira, the apex bank also charged them to see the naira as a critical symbol of national identity, stressing that the onus lies on them to respect and keep it clean.

Below are the ways you can abuse the naira;

• Spraying: It is illegal to spray banknotes at events.
• Writing: Writing on banknotes is prohibited by law.
• Stapling: Stapling banknotes is prohibited by law due to the potential for corrosion caused by the pins.
• Tearing: Tearing banknotes is also illegal.
• Dancing or stamping on naira: Dancing or stamping on naira banknotes is prohibited by law. Getting oil or ink on the banknotes can be considered a form of defacing.
• Selling: Selling currency banknotes is illegal.
• Mutilation: Anyone caught tampering with the naira note will face legal consequences, as stated in the CBN Act Section 21.
• Rejecting the naira: Rejecting the naira is strictly prohibited by law (Section 20, Subsection 5).
• Money bouquets: In February 2023, the CBN also identified money bouquets as a type of naira abuse.

Ways To Avoid Mutilating The Naira

Electronic Transfer: Since the world is embracing digital banking and online payment, party rockers can also take advantage of it. Making digital transactions is another way to avoid the risk of defacing the naira notes at parties.

Non-cash gift items: Gifting non-cash items at parties can also be considered a replacement for spraying notes.

Prop Money: One of the creative alternatives to spraying monies at parties is the use of prop money. Prop money is an imitation currency that resembles real money but is typically used for theatrical purposes. It is commonly used in movies, music videos, or stage performances.