Popular Nigerian comedian and actor, Ayo Makun, widely known as AY, has addressed his recent invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations related to the abuse of the Naira.
In a statement shared via his Instagram page on Wednesday, AY revealed that he was invited by the anti-graft agency on Monday, May 5, in connection with an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies at a social event—an act deemed a violation of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulations on currency mutilation.
“I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance,” the comedian wrote. “On Monday, I was invited by the EFCC concerning an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies—an offense classified under the abuse of the Naira.”
AY expressed gratitude to the EFCC for its understanding and for granting him a pardon after verifying that the funds involved were not linked to criminal or illicit activities.
“I sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me a pardon based on confirmation that the money sprayed was not connected to the proceeds of crime or any illicit source,” he stated.
Describing the experience as a wake-up call, AY pledged to use his platform to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the integrity of the national currency.
“This experience has been a valuable lesson. I am committed to educating others about the proper respect and care for our currency,” he wrote. “While spraying money is often seen as a cultural norm at weddings, funerals, and other celebrations, it is also a violation of Nigerian law.”
AY emphasized the legal risks associated with currency abuse, including spraying, defacing, tearing, or mishandling the Naira.
“Such acts not only degrade the value of our currency but are punishable under Nigerian law. Respecting the Naira is respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and economic future,” he added.
In his post, the comedian also shared informational slides highlighting the “Dos and Don’ts” related to currency handling.
Similarly, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo confirmed via Instagram that she was also contacted by the EFCC over currency spraying at her daughter’s wedding. She honored the agency’s invitation upon returning from the United Kingdom and appeared before officials on the same day as AY—Monday, May 5, 2025.
Both celebrities have since pledged to advocate for greater public awareness about the legal implications of currency abuse. Under Section 21 of the CBN Act, 2007, such acts are classified as offenses and are punishable under Nigerian law.
