The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has come out swinging — warning Nigerians that spraying Naira at parties is now officially a punishable offence that could land offenders in prison or hit them with serious fines.
In a statement that sent shockwaves across social media and the event industry, EFCC says it is clamping down on the abuse of the Naira, particularly the popular culture of spraying money at weddings, birthdays, burial ceremonies, and owambe gigs.
The Commission, citing Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007, says abuse of the Naira — whether by spraying, stamping, stepping on, or tearing — is illegal and now under close watch.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, declared:
“We have tolerated enough nonsense in the name of culture. The Naira is our national symbol and must be respected. Spraying money is not celebration — it is economic sabotage.”
If caught, offenders could face up to six months imprisonment or pay a fine of ₦50,000 and above, depending on the severity of the abuse. And they’re not playing — recent arrests in Lagos and Abuja have shown EFCC officials storming event venues in mufti, camera-ready.
The new crackdown also applies to musicians, DJs, and MCs who encourage the act or collect sprayed money in bundles. EFCC says ignorance won’t be an excuse.
Party Planners, Guests React: ‘E Don Red!’
Of course, Naija Twitter don enter frenzy:
@OwambeGuru tweeted:
“EFCC wan cancel joy in this country. So now we go just dey clap like church people? No money rain again?”
@DJMekusBeats:
“Me wey dey count sprayed bundles after party, wetin make I go do now? Na this my hustle dem wan end.”
But some Nigerians are backing the move, calling it “long overdue”.
Lifestyle analyst Tola Ogunyemi told Trending Naija News:
“The culture of spraying money has encouraged counterfeiting, money laundering, and corruption. If we want to fix the system, we must start with how we treat our currency.”
While many are worried that this crackdown will kill party vibes across the country, others say it’s time for Nigerians to find more dignified ways to show appreciation and celebrate.
But here’s the real question:
Will EFCC have the capacity to police every event, or will this be another headline-for-effect wahala?
For now, party-goers beware:
If you spray, you may pay.