The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained three individuals over the alleged defacement of the naira after a viral social media video surfaced.
The suspects—Adam Muhammad, Muhammad Muhammad, and Bashir Musa were arrested following footage that showed them using a ₦500 note to wipe mucus from their noses.
In a statement released on Thursday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the video triggered an investigation, which resulted in the identification and arrest of the trio within Maiduguri metropolis.
The commission added that the suspects are currently being held at the EFCC’s Maiduguri detention facility as investigations continue. “The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested three individuals over alleged Naira mutilation. The suspects Adam Muhammad, Muhammad Muhammad and Bashir Musa were arrested following a viral video on social media platforms in which they were seen cleaning mucus from their noses with a ₦500 note,” the statement said.
Oyewale added that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. The arrest comes amid renewed enforcement of laws prohibiting the abuse and defacement of the Nigerian currency. In recent weeks, the EFCC has intensified its clampdown on acts considered to undermine the integrity of the Naira, including the recent arrest of Kannywood actor Saminu Inuwa over a similar allegation.
The commission said the ongoing efforts are part of its broader mandate to preserve the value and dignity of the national currency.