The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kano State has arrested popular TikTok influencer, Murja Ibrahim Kunya, over allegations of Naira mutilation and abuse. The social media personality was reportedly taken into custody for spraying money at public events, a practice considered illegal under Nigerian law.
A reliable source within the commission confirmed to Freedom Radio Kano that Murja is currently being detained by the EFCC as part of their ongoing investigation into financial misconduct related to currency abuse. This development has sparked widespread debate, particularly within the social media and entertainment communities, where the culture of money spraying is both widely practiced and admired.
EFCC’s Intensified Crackdown on Money Spraying
Murja Kunya’s arrest is not an isolated case—the EFCC has been on a mission to enforce Nigeria’s financial laws, particularly those relating to the handling of the national currency.
Recently, the EFCC also arrested other TikTok influencers, including:
- Al’amin G-Fresh
- Ashir Idris
These individuals faced similar charges of indiscriminately spraying and abusing the Naira at public events, a practice that has long been associated with Nigerian celebrations, including weddings, birthdays, and cultural gatherings.
The commission has expressed concerns over the growing trend of social media influencers publicly flouting financial regulations. Many young Nigerians look up to these content creators, and their behavior can influence a broader audience.
Why is Money Spraying Illegal in Nigeria?
Although money spraying is a deep-rooted part of Nigerian culture, particularly at social events, the act is considered illegal under Nigerian law. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the mutilation, defacement, or improper handling of the Naira is a punishable offense.
The law prohibits:
- Spraying or throwing money into the air
- Stamping money onto individuals during celebrations
- Writing on, tearing, or defacing the Naira
- Destroying or stepping on currency notes
In recent years, the CBN and EFCC have increased their efforts to clamp down on these acts, warning the public that anyone caught engaging in such practices could face fines or imprisonment.
While the Nigerian elite and socialites have long engaged in the tradition of money spraying, critics argue that targeting influencers and celebrities may not be the most effective approach to stopping the practice.
Public Reactions: Mixed Opinions on Murja Kunya’s Arrest
Murja Ibrahim Kunya’s arrest has sparked a heated debate on social media, with Nigerians divided over whether the EFCC’s crackdown is justified or selective.
Some supporters believe that arresting high-profile individuals like Murja Kunya sends a strong message that no one is above the law, regardless of their social status or influence. They argue that enforcing this law will help promote financial discipline and respect for the national currency.
However, critics are questioning whether the EFCC’s crackdown is fair and evenly applied. Many point out that prominent politicians and business elites also engage in similar acts of Naira abuse at extravagant events, yet they are rarely held accountable.
“Why are they only going after TikTok influencers and not the big politicians who do this all the time at rallies and private parties?” one social media user commented.
Others have raised concerns over the EFCC’s priorities, arguing that Nigeria faces more pressing financial crimes, such as corruption, money laundering, and embezzlement, which should take precedence over minor currency violations.
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Legal Implications: What’s Next for Murja Kunya?
As of now, neither the EFCC nor Murja Ibrahim Kunya’s legal representatives have released an official statement regarding her arrest. However, if found guilty of violating Nigeria’s currency laws, she could face:
- A fine of up to ₦50,000
- A jail term of up to six months
- Both fine and imprisonment depending on the court’s ruling
It remains unclear whether Murja will be prosecuted or granted bail, but her case is likely to set a precedent for how social media influencers and public figures are treated under these financial laws.
A Warning to Social Media Influencers?
Murja Kunya’s arrest highlights the increased scrutiny on social media personalities who publicly display wealth in ways that violate Nigerian laws. It serves as a warning to influencers, celebrities, and event attendees that money spraying, while culturally significant, is a serious offense under Nigerian financial regulations.
As the EFCC continues its crackdown, it remains to be seen whether this will lead to broader enforcement across all sectors, including politics and high society events, or if the focus will remain on young influencers who attract media attention.