In a recent case at the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Etiusen Stephen was sentenced for disrespecting the Naira, Nigeria’s currency. The incident took place on June 27, 2024, when Etiusen was caught spraying Naira notes and stepping on them while dancing at a party held at Ken’s Court Luxury Apartments.
The court session, presided over by Justice M.A. Onyetenu, revealed that Etiusen faced two charges under Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007. One of the charges stated that Etiusen sold Naira notes worth N40,000 to an individual named Edidiong Usoro, which is a violation of the Act.
When the charges were presented, Etiusen pleaded guilty to both counts. The prosecution counsel, Joshua Abolarin, urged the court to convict Etiusen and order the permanent forfeiture of the N40,000 to the Federal Government of Nigeria. On the other hand, Etiusen’s defense lawyer, Udeme Tom, asked the court to consider a lighter sentence, emphasizing that Etiusen was remorseful and a first-time offender.
After hearing both sides, Justice Onyetenu convicted Etiusen and ordered the forfeiture of the recovered N40,000. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting Nigeria’s currency and the legal consequences of currency abuse.
