A coalition of civil society organizations under the aegis of the Network of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria has lodged a complaint with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
The coalition alleges that Senator Okpebholo has engaged in the abuse of the Nigerian currency, the Naira.
In a petition dated May 2, 2024, addressed to the chairman of the EFCC, the coalition highlighted the offense of Naira abuse and mutilation, citing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act of 2007, which declares such actions as punishable offenses. The coalition emphasized that the spraying, dancing, or matching on the Naira during social occasions is a clear violation of the law.
The coalition expressed disappointment that prominent individuals, including lawmakers, have violated this provision of the CBN Act. However, they commended the EFCC for its swift response in arresting and charging individuals who have been caught on viral videos abusing and defacing the Naira at social events. The coalition specifically mentioned the cases of Mr. Okuneye Idris Olarewaju, popularly known as Bobrisky, and Mr. Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, who have faced legal consequences for their actions.
While praising the EFCC for its actions, the coalition demanded that all individuals captured in viral videos abusing the Naira should be promptly arrested and brought to justice, as no one is above the law.
In light of these demands, the coalition called upon the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to investigate the viral video involving Senator Monday Okpebholo, who is seen engaging in Naira abuse and mutilation. The coalition believes that Senator Okpebholo should be held accountable for his actions as a representative of the people.
The petition, signed by National Coordinator Comrade Victor Kalu and National Secretary Alh. Ali Abatcha, warned that failure to address the viral video involving Senator Okpebholo would result in the coalition taking further actions. They threatened to mobilize their members, supporters, and democracy advocates for a peaceful protest against the EFCC, citing selective action and bias. Furthermore, they expressed intentions to pursue legal action against the EFCC for negligence in the face of undeniable evidence and to seek a judicial interpretation of Section 21 (3) of the CBN Act 2007 (As Amended) as it pertains to the video evidence of Senator Okpebholo abusing and defacing the Naira.
The coalition enclosed the aforementioned video as evidence to support their claims and urged the EFCC to act swiftly. They concluded the petition by expressing gratitude and extending blessings to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.