Spraying the Naira Is Illegal, Not Just Culture — AY Speaks After EFCC Pardon

Nigerian comedian and actor, Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, has confirmed that he was recently invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations related to the abuse of the Nigerian currency.

In a statement shared via his Instagram page on Wednesday, AY revealed that he honored the EFCC’s invitation on Monday, May 5, following concerns about the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies at a recent social event he attended.

He wrote:

“I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance. On Monday, I was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies, an act that has been classified as an offense related to the abuse of the Naira.”

The comedian expressed appreciation to the commission for the professional handling of the case and for granting him a pardon after confirming the funds used were not connected to any criminal activity.

“I want to sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me pardon based on confirmation that the money being sprayed is not linked to the proceeds of crime or any form of illicit funds.”

AY said the encounter had taught him a “valuable lesson” and pledged to use his platform to raise awareness about currency integrity.

“This experience has been a valuable lesson, and I am personally committed to promoting awareness about the proper respect and care for our national currency.”

He acknowledged that money spraying is a widely accepted cultural practice in Nigeria, especially during celebrations, but emphasized that it is nonetheless a violation of Nigerian law.

“We all know that spraying money at public events is a practice common in Nigerian celebrations… But let me attach some slides to this post on the DOS AND DON’T.”

“It is important to understand that mutilating or abusing the Naira—whether by spraying, tearing, defacing, or mishandling—is not just a cultural practice but also a violation of Nigerian law. Such acts undermine the integrity of our national currency and can have serious legal consequences.”

“Let us all strive to uphold the dignity of our currency, which is a symbol of our nation’s sovereignty and economic stability. Respect for the Naira is respect for Nigeria’s future.”

AY concluded by urging the public to support efforts to promote patriotism and lawful conduct.

Meanwhile, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo also confirmed via Instagram that she was contacted by the EFCC while abroad and honored their invitation after returning to Nigeria. She appeared before the commission on May 5, reportedly over aspects of her daughter’s recent wedding.