In a landmark enforcement of Nigeria’s currency laws, popular TikTok influencers Tee Dollar (real name Imadu Babatunde Olaitan Peter) and TobiNation have each been sentenced to six months in prison for abusing the Naira. The sentencing follows their viral videos which showed them spraying banknotes at a social gathering—an act officially classified as currency mutilation under Nigerian law.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested the duo after clips of their actions were widely circulated online. Prosecutors argued that their conduct not only violated the Central Bank of Nigeria’s regulations but also set a dangerous example for their followers, many of whom are young and impressionable. The court concurred, stating that influencers must bear responsibility for how they use their platforms.
While both content creators pleaded guilty, the court chose not to impose a fine or offer an option for a non-custodial sentence. The judge emphasized that a clear message needed to be sent about the sanctity of national symbols, especially the Naira, which has suffered both in value and in public perception. Spraying and mishandling of currency at parties has long been a contentious issue in Nigerian society, often viewed as both wasteful and disrespectful.
Reactions to the sentencing have been mixed, with some Nigerians applauding the court for upholding the law, while others view the punishment as excessive. Still, the case marks a significant moment in the federal government’s ongoing efforts to regulate the influence of social media culture on legal and financial norms.
