Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Iyabo Ojo, has confirmed her recent invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the spraying of naira and foreign currencies at her daughter’s wedding ceremony.
The actress, who made the disclosure through a detailed post on her Instagram page, said she honoured the EFCC’s invitation on May 5, 2025, shortly after returning to the country from the United Kingdom.
Ojo explained that the decision to go public about the matter became necessary following several calls, text messages and social media reactions from concerned individuals who sought to know the truth about the invitation and her welfare.
She noted that during her visit to the EFCC office, officials of the Commission interrogated her on several issues, including her personal details, professional background, career experience, and businesses.
According to her, the anti-graft agency also presented video footage from her daughter’s wedding event, where guests, colleagues, and friends were captured spraying local and foreign currencies.
Ojo said she was asked by EFCC operatives if she was aware that the act of spraying money at events was illegal. In response, she admitted to previously believing that only the abuse or mutilation of the naira was an offence.
She, however, said the EFCC officials took time to clarify that spraying money — whether in naira or any foreign currency, including US dollars — is outlawed in Nigeria.
After the questioning, I was allowed to go the same day,” she wrote, adding that her legal representative, O.I. Salami, stood in for her in case there was any need for further clarifications or follow-up from the Commission.
While reflecting on the experience, Ojo urged Nigerians to desist from spraying money during social functions to avoid running afoul of the law and attracting EFCC scrutiny.
She called for a cultural shift from the long-standing tradition, stressing the need for people to exercise caution in order not to face legal consequences.
In her words: “I recently had an experience with the EFCC in Nigeria after receiving an invitation letter while I was in the UK. Upon my return, I visited the EFCC on the 5th of May 2025, where I was asked several questions relating to my personal biodata, career, work experience, and companies, amongst others.
“The EFCC officials showed me videos extracted from my daughter’s wedding where guests, including colleagues and friends, were spraying naira and foreign currencies. I was asked if I knew this was illegal, and I explained that I thought only abuse or mutilation of the naira was an offence.
The EFCC officials clarified that spraying money, including on people’s bodies, is prohibited. I was surprised to learn that spraying any currency, including dollars, is also not allowed.
“After questioning, I was allowed to leave the same day, but my personal lawyer, O.I. Salami, stood in for me as I may be called upon again.
Given this experience, I strongly advise against spraying any currency in Nigeria to avoid issues with the EFCC. Perhaps it’s time to reconsider this long-standing tradition. Let’s prioritise caution and avoid any potential problems.”
