The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a woman, identified as Fatima Muhammed, into custody for allegedly mutilating the Nigerian currency.
The arrest, which took place on Tuesday, April 7, 2025, was triggered by a controversial video circulating on the social media platform TikTok.
In the footage, the suspect is purportedly seen using a N500 note to wipe mucus from her nose, an act that sparked widespread outrage and drew the immediate attention of law enforcement.
Operatives of the anti-graft agency successfully traced and apprehended Muhammed within the Maiduguri metropolis shortly after the video went viral.
Under the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, the spraying, dancing or matching on the Naira or any note issued by the Bank during social occasions or otherwise is a punishable offense.
The EFCC has intensified its crackdown on the abuse of the national currency in recent years, emphasizing that the Naira is a symbol of national sovereignty that must be handled with respect.
“The suspect is currently being held at the Maiduguri detention facility while investigations into the matter continue,” stated Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity.
The Commission confirmed that Muhammed will be formally charged in court as soon as the ongoing investigation is concluded.
This arrest serves as a stern reminder to the public that the EFCC is actively monitoring digital spaces for any form of currency abuse or economic sabotage.