EFCC Grills AY Makun Over Naira Abuse
Comedian and actor Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has spoken out after being invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of naira abuse.
AY confirmed in a statement on Instagram, on Wednesday, that he was questioned by the EFCC on Monday, May 5, for allegedly spraying both local and foreign currencies at a recent social event—an act deemed a violation of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rules.
He wrote, “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 offence related to the abuse of the Naira.”
AY thanked the anti-graft agency for their understanding, saying he was granted pardon after it was confirmed the funds used were not linked to crime or illicit activities.
“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 added.
Describing the incident as a learning moment, the 53-year-old comic vowed to help educate Nigerians on how to respect the country’s currency.
“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,” he stated.
AY further urged the public to uphold the dignity of the naira, calling it a symbol of national pride and economic strength.
Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo also confirmed on Tuesday that she was contacted by the EFCC while in the UK and honoured the invitation upon her return.
She appeared before the agency on the same day as AY and was reportedly questioned over parts of her daughter’s recent wedding ceremony.
Both celebrities have pledged to use their platforms to raise awareness about the legal consequences of currency abuse.
According to Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, spraying, tearing, or defacing the naira are punishable offences.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
