The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has summoned Subomi and Wahab Okoya, the sons of billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya, over alleged abuse of naira notes.
The brothers have been directed to appear at the EFCC’s Lagos office on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, by 10 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025.
This development follows the viral spread of a video in which the Okoya brothers were seen spraying naira notes, with a police officer holding wads of cash.
The incident appeared to be part of a promotional activity for a new song.
In the invitation, signed by Acting Director of the Lagos Directorate, Michael Wetkas, the EFCC emphasized that the summons was in line with enforcing Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which forbids the abuse of the national currency.
The video has also garnered the attention of the Nigeria Police Force, which identified and detained the officer seen in the clip.
Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi l, confirmed the officer’s actions were deemed unethical and assured that disciplinary actions would follow as part of efforts to uphold professionalism and integrity within the force.
The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of laws against naira abuse, particularly by high-profile individuals.
In 2024, the EFCC ramped up its efforts, leading to the arrest and prosecution of notable figures such as social media influencer Bobrisky and businessman Cubana Chief Priest for similar offenses.
The case involving the Okoya brothers is the latest high-profile incident where authorities are emphasizing the equal application of the law to protect the integrity of the naira.
Background In the viral video, Subomi and Wahab Okoya were seen spraying naira notes, while a police officer held stacks of cash, a clear violation of Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.
On Friday, the NPF confirmed that the officer involved in the video had been identified and detained for further disciplinary action.
In an official statement posted on its X handle, the NPF condemned the officer’s actions, stating, “The policeman captured in the recent viral video shared by the sons of the Lagos businessman, Chief Okoya, where they were abusing the naira, has been identified and detained for disciplinary action.”
The statement continued, “The involvement of the policeman has been condemned, as it’s unethical. We will always strive hard to uphold the sanctity, credibility, and core values of the police.”
Meanwhile, numerous X users have voiced their opinions, calling for the Okoya brothers to also face detention. It is worth recalling that in 2024, Bobrisky, a well-known socialite and cross-dresser, was imprisoned for a similar offense.
