Popular Nigerian comedian and actor Ayo Makun, widely known as AY, has confirmed that he was recently invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies at a social event.
This development has sparked widespread reactions, especially since it comes just days after Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo shared a similar experience with the EFCC.
AY took to his Instagram page to address the situation, expressing gratitude for how it was handled and revealing that the EFCC granted him a pardon.
“I am grateful to God for His mercy and guidance,” AY began in his Instagram post. “On Monday, I was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an incident involving the public spraying of both local and foreign currencies—an act that has been classified as an offense related to the abuse of the Naira.”
The actor explained that the invitation came as a result of the cultural practice of spraying money at public events, a tradition deeply rooted in Nigerian celebrations but one that could have legal implications.
He further expressed appreciation to the EFCC and other authorities involved for their understanding of the situation.
“I want to sincerely thank the EFCC and all authorities involved for their understanding and for granting me pardon based on confirmation that the money being sprayed is not linked to the proceeds of crime or any form of illicit funds,” AY wrote, clarifying that the EFCC was able to verify the legitimacy of the funds involved.
In his message, AY acknowledged the cultural significance of money spraying in Nigerian celebrations, but he also cautioned the public to be aware of the legal risks associated with such practices.
“To my friends, family, and the general public: We all know that spraying money at public events is a practice common in Nigerian celebrations, especially during weddings, funerals, and parties. It is generally considered a cultural tradition rather than a criminal act. But let me attach some slides to this post on the DOS AND DON’TS,” he stated.
He went on to emphasize the importance of understanding the law and respecting the national currency.
“It is important to understand that mutilating or abusing the Naira—whether by spraying, tearing, defacing, or mishandling—is not just a cultural practice but also a violation of Nigerian law. Such acts undermine the integrity of our national currency and can have serious legal consequences,” AY advised, urging his followers to be cautious.
AY’s experience with the EFCC is part of a growing awareness campaign by the agency against the abuse of the Naira and other currencies at social gatherings.
The agency has intensified efforts to educate the public about the consequences of such practices, emphasizing that while cultural traditions are valued, they must not violate the law.
This incident follows a similar situation involving actress Iyabo Ojo, who was invited by the EFCC after her daughter’s lavish wedding, where guests were seen spraying both local and foreign currencies.
Like AY, Iyabo also used her social media platform to share her experience and caution others about the legal implications of spraying money at public events.
As AY’s statement continues to generate reactions, many fans and followers have expressed mixed feelings.
While some appreciate his transparency and the EFCC’s understanding, others question whether the long-standing tradition of spraying money at celebrations should be reviewed or even abandoned in light of these legal concerns.
