Crystabel Ukwuegbu
Iyabo Ojo, who is a well-known Nollywood actress and filmmaker, has confirmed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) summoned her for questioning after videos surfaced online showing guests spraying both naira and foreign currencies during her daughter Priscilla Ojo’s grand wedding.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, the 47-year-old actress addressed growing media attention and online discussions about her encounter with the anti-corruption body.
Ojo shared that she received the EFCC’s summons while she was abroad in the United Kingdom. After arriving back in Nigeria, she complied with the EFCC’s request and appeared before the agency on May 5, 2025.
During her visit, she disclosed, the EFCC questioned her about her personal background, professional career, and business affiliations.
Caught Off Guard by Currency Rules
According to Ojo, EFCC officials presented her with video evidence from the wedding showing guests spraying money, both naira and foreign currencies. She admitted to being unaware that such acts were prohibited.
“I was questioned about my awareness of the legal implications of spraying money. I responded that I thought only defacing or tearing the naira was illegal,” she explained.
She added that the EFCC clarified spraying money on people, whether naira or foreign currencies like dollars, is considered an offence.
Surprised by this revelation, Ojo noted that she was released the same day, and her lawyer would represent her should the agency require further cooperation.
Offering advice based on her experience, Ojo warned Nigerians against the practice, urging a shift in cultural norms. “To avoid unnecessary issues with the EFCC, I suggest we all refrain from spraying money at events. It may be time to let go of this tradition for good.”
A Star-Studded Wedding
Priscilla’s marriage to Tanzanian artist Juma Jux was a major topic on social media this year. The celebrations began with a traditional ceremony in Tanzania in February, then continued with a Nigerian wedding on April 17, and culminated in an extravagant white wedding on April 19 at a seaside venue in Lagos.
The celebration featured appearances from some of Nollywood’s biggest names, including Mercy Aigbe, Destiny Etiko, and Toyin Abraham, and generated widespread buzz across social platforms.
EFCC Intensifies Efforts Against Currency Abuse
Ojo’s interrogation adds her to a growing list of public figures investigated by the EFCC for currency-related violations.
In recent months, singer Terry Apala was detained by a Lagos court for allegedly mutilating naira notes at an event.
Internet personality Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison without the possibility of a fine for spraying and mishandling naira at social functions.
Nightlife promoter Cubana Chief Priest also faced legal charges but reached a ₦10 million settlement and committed to running a public awareness campaign.
Socialite E-Money was seen in a viral clip allegedly spraying naira and dollars, though no formal charges have been brought against him.
TikTok creator Murja Kunya was also arrested after being caught spraying naira during a hotel party.
The EFCC continues to warn that mishandling or spraying naira or other currencies violates the Central Bank of Nigeria Act and is subject to legal consequences. The agency is ramping up enforcement efforts to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s monetary system.
