A man named Etiusen Stephen has been sentenced for spraying and stepping on Naira notes in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Justice M.A. Oyetenu of the Federal High Court gave the ruling on July 19, 2024, finding Stephen guilty of abusing the Naira.
Stephen's troubles began on June 27, 2024, when he was caught selling N40,000 worth of Naira notes to Edidiong Usoro at Ken’s Court Luxury Apartments. This action broke the law stated in Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which aims to protect the national currency. As a result, Stephen was charged with naira abuse. The Viral Video
When Stephen was presented with the charges, he admitted to them. The prosecutor, Joshua Abolarin, asked the court to convict him and permanently take the recovered cash. Stephen's lawyer, Udeme Tom, asked for a lighter sentence, saying Stephen was sorry for his actions and had never committed a crime before.
After hearing both sides, Justice Oyetenu found Stephen guilty and ordered that the Forty Thousand Naira be taken by the Federal Government. The court's decision shows how serious naira abuse is and aims to prevent similar actions in the future.
Stephen was arrested along with ten others at Shelter Afrique area during a party. His reckless handling of the Naira notes drew a lot of attention and highlighted the importance of following currency regulations in Nigeria.
This case reminds everyone that the Naira should be respected and that there are serious consequences for abusing it. The Federal Government is committed to enforcing laws that protect the nation’s currency.
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