A Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan has convicted and fined a 28-year-old man, Ridwan Surajdeen, for the abuse of the Nigerian currency, an offence commonly known as 'spraying' naira notes at social events.
Court Conviction and Sentencing
Justice Nkeonye Maha of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, delivered the judgment on Wednesday, imposing a fine of N50,000 on Surajdeen. The conviction was based on the defendant's guilty plea and a plea bargain agreement he entered with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibadan Zonal Office.
In her ruling, Justice Maha stated she considered the submission from the defence counsel, Mr Timothy Akande, who pleaded for leniency, citing that his client was a first-time offender. However, she issued a stern warning, hoping the convict was truly remorseful as he "may not be lucky if brought back for any offence." The judge ordered that the N50,000 fine be paid into the account of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Details of the Offence
The prosecuting counsel, Mr Abdulrasheed Suleiman, informed the court that Surajdeen committed the crime on June 5, 2023. The incident took place at the Veger Club House, located opposite Ventura Mall in the Samonda area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
Suleiman elaborated that EFCC detectives acted on intelligence reports which indicated that Surajdeen was a habitual money sprayer. This practice constitutes an abuse of the naira under Nigerian law. The operatives eventually caught him in the act, spraying N200 denomination notes at a night party held at the clubhouse.
Legal Implications and Warning
This case highlights the continued enforcement of laws against the mutilation and abuse of the Nigerian currency. The EFCC has been actively prosecuting individuals for such offences, which include spraying, stepping on, or otherwise defacing naira notes.
The court's decision to impose a fine, while considering the plea bargain, serves as a deterrent. Justice Maha's warning underscores the seriousness with which the judiciary views currency abuse, indicating that repeat offenders could face harsher penalties in the future.
