Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has been invited and interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Lagos over alleged abuse of the Nigerian currency during her daughter’s high-profile wedding ceremony. The actress, who is widely known for her influence in the entertainment industry and her social media activism, was reportedly grilled on Monday, May 6, 2025, over videos that surfaced online showing guests—including herself—spraying bundles of naira and dollar notes in violation of Nigeria’s currency laws.
The EFCC confirmed the development through a spokesperson, stating that the actress honored the commission’s invitation and appeared at their Lagos office for questioning. The investigation is part of a wider clampdown on the abuse of the naira, particularly at social events where money is often thrown in the air—a practice the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) considers illegal.
A senior official at the commission who spoke on condition of anonymity revealed that Iyabo Ojo responded to questions regarding the viral videos from her daughter Priscilla Ajoke Ojo’s wedding. The event, which attracted several celebrities, influencers, and public figures, was heavily documented on social media, with clips showing exuberant spraying of both local and foreign currencies.
“The commission is acting within the law to investigate activities that could potentially undermine the integrity of the naira,” the EFCC official said. “Mrs. Ojo was invited and she cooperated fully during the questioning.”
Iyabo Ojo, after several hours at the EFCC office, was released and asked to return at a later date for further clarification and possible administrative procedures. It is not yet clear if formal charges will be filed against her, but sources within the commission indicated that more individuals seen in the videos may also be invited.
This incident adds Iyabo Ojo to a growing list of celebrities who have been summoned by the anti-graft agency for allegedly spraying or mishandling the naira at public events. In recent months, the EFCC has taken steps to enforce the law prohibiting abuse of the national currency, in accordance with Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, which forbids “spraying, dancing or matching on the naira or any note issued by the Bank during social occasions or otherwise.”
The law stipulates that such acts are punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the gravity of the offense. While enforcement has been criticized by some as selective or performative, the EFCC insists that it is part of broader efforts to restore respect for the country’s currency and financial regulations.
Social media has been abuzz with mixed reactions following news of Iyabo Ojo’s invitation. While some supporters argue that the actress was merely celebrating her daughter’s milestone and should not be criminalized for a cultural practice, others applaud the EFCC’s actions, stating that public figures must be held accountable to set an example.
A legal analyst, Barrister Tokunbo Ajayi, commented on the development, saying, “It is within the jurisdiction of the EFCC to investigate any activity that involves financial crimes or potential violations of existing financial laws. However, there should be a balance between enforcement and education. Many people may not fully understand that spraying the naira, though culturally embedded, is actually illegal.”
Iyabo Ojo has not yet issued an official statement regarding the interrogation. However, sources close to her suggest she remains cooperative and confident that she will be cleared of any wrongdoing. Her daughter’s wedding, which was celebrated with grandeur and luxury, had been the subject of public fascination, not only for its glamorous decor and guest list but also for its implications in the ongoing discussions about wealth display and currency regulations in Nigeria.
The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to curbing financial indiscipline and warned members of the public to desist from any form of naira abuse. The agency has also hinted at launching awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the legal and economic consequences of such actions.
As investigations continue, all eyes remain on how this high-profile case will unfold and what precedent it might set for future events. For now, the spotlight remains on Iyabo Ojo and the larger conversation surrounding law, culture, and public conduct in Nigeria.
