In Nigeria, it’s a common sight at social events—bundles of Naira notes sprayed into the air in celebration, or guests dancing over them in joy. While these acts may seem like harmless cultural expressions, they have significant legal consequences under Nigerian law. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has repeatedly warned against the abuse of the Naira, emphasizing that the nation’s currency is a symbol of national identity and sovereignty, and must be treated with dignity.
Relevant Laws and Provisions.
The primary legal framework for the protection of the Naira is found in the CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA ACT, 2007, AND THE CRIMINAL CODE ACT. Specific provisions to note include:
- Section 21(1) of the CBN Act criminalizes the mutilation, defacement, or abuse of the Naira. The Act provides that: “A person who tampers with a coin or note issued by the Bank is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine not less than ₦50,000 or imprisonment for a term not less than six months or both.”
- “Tampering” includes spraying, writing on, stapling, selling, mutilating, or dancing on the currency—acts that are sadly frequent in social gatherings across the country.
- Additionally, under the Criminal Code Act, acts involving public disorder or indecency, such as reckless spraying of cash, may attract criminal liability, particularly when such conduct endangers others or disrupts public peace.
SPRAYING AND STEPPING ON NAIRA: A CULTURAL TRADITION OR LEGAL INFRACTION?
While spraying money has long been associated with celebration—especially at weddings and parties—the law does not carve out exceptions for cultural practices. The key issue is intentional disrespect or mishandling of the Naira. Even though celebrants may not mean to deface the currency, the act of spraying often leads to the notes being torn, stained, or trampled upon—thus violating the law.
In recent years, law enforcement agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Police Force have begun arresting and prosecuting individuals who publicly abuse the currency. Celebrities and party guests have faced public warnings and fines as examples to others.
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES
Offenders risk:
- A fine of at least ₦50,000,
- Imprisonment of no less than six months, or
- Both, depending on the court’s
In some cases, banks may also refuse to accept or process mutilated notes, creating unnecessary inconvenience for the holder.
CBN’s Public Campaigns and Enforcement
To reinforce its stance, the CBN has launched several sensitization programs and partnered with security agencies to enforce compliance. In some states, mobile courts have been set up to handle currency abuse cases on the spot.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO INSTEAD?
- Celebrate responsibly. If you must show appreciation, consider handing cash directly to recipients in an envelope.
- Avoid dancing or walking on
- Do not write, staple, or tear Naira
- Educate others about the legal and symbolic value of the
WHY THE EFCC GETS INVOLVED
Although the Central Bank of Nigeria is primarily responsible for regulating the handling of the Naira, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) often plays an enforcement role.
THIS IS FOR SEVERAL REASONS:
· Suspicion Of Financial Crimes:
Spraying large amounts of cash in public can raise red flags about the source of the funds, potentially signaling money laundering, unexplained wealth, or illicit transactions—all of which fall within the EFCC’s mandate.
· Partnership With the CBN:
The EFCC frequently collaborates with the CBN to investigate and prosecute financial offenses. Where currency abuse involves significant sums or questionable financial activity, the EFCC steps in to conduct deeper investigations.
· Public Accountability and Deterrence:
By prosecuting high-profile or repeated offenders, the EFCC reinforces the message that financial recklessness and symbolic disrespect for Nigeria’s currency will not be tolerated.
This crossover of enforcement helps to ensure that currency abuse, especially when linked to broader financial misconduct, is dealt with swiftly and thoroughly.
To reinforce its stance, the CBN has launched several sensitization programs and partnered with security agencies to enforce compliance. In some states, mobile courts have been set up to handle currency abuse cases on the spot.
CONCLUSION
Respect for the Naira is not just a legal obligation—it’s a civic duty. As the symbol of our economy and national pride, how we treat our currency reflects how we view our country. Abusing the Naira, even in celebration, sends the wrong message and attracts criminal liability. Let’s celebrate culture, but not at the cost of the law.
