06/04/2024
Illuminating.
The Naira and the Law The Mummy of Lagos Saga
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced the arrest of Lagos socialite and crossdresser, Idris Okuneye better known as Bobrisky, for abusing naira notes on the 4th of April, himshe was arraigned at the Federal High Court Sitting in Lagos on the 5th of April, 2024 wherein a six count charge was read to himshe. Away from that, here are a few helpful tips you should know about the Naira before you start spraying money in that Owambe, Child's dedication, naming ceremony etc.
Firstly, the CBN is responsible for the issuance of the Naira and kobo (Sections 17, 18 and 19 CBN Act).
It is against the law for any individual or establishment outside the Central Bank of Nigeria, to print money or be in possession of counterfeit notes. If you are caught and convicted of a counterfeiting crime, you may face up to five (5) years imprisonment with no option of fine (Section 20).
Abuse of the Naira
Spraying: It is against the law to spray the Naira banknotes at occasions.
Writing: It is against the law to write on banknotes.
Stapling: It is against the law to staple the banknotes as the pins can cause corrosion of the banknotes.
Tearing: It is also against the law to tear the banknotes
Soiling: It is against the law to dance/stamp on the Naira banknotes. Do not stain the banknotes with oil or ink, as this is also a form of defacing.
Sale: It is against the law to sell currency banknotes.
Mutilation: A person who tampers with the Naira note or coin is guilty of an offence, punishable by law (CBN Act Section 21).
It is against the law to reject the Naira (Section 20 subsection 5 CBN Act).
Implications of Improper Handling of the Naira
Increase in currency management costs due to the high cost of banknotes replacement.
Defaced/torn banknotes slow down sorting process resulting in lower output of clean banknotes.
Erodes the sense of pride and confidence that Nigerians should feel in their currency.
Any form of defacement of the currency is a form of ridicule on the nation.
Prevalence of dirty banknotes in circulation is a potential health hazard to the citizenry.
I hope these illuminate you further on the use and handling of the Naira notes...