Popular Nigerian music artist Terry Apala has landed in legal trouble as he faces charges related to mutilation of the Naira notes. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned the musician before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, citing an alleged violation of Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007.
The allegations stem from an incident at La Madison Place, Oniru, where Terry Apala was said to have tampered with Naira notes while dancing at a social event. The charge stated that he had marched on the notes, an act that constitutes an offence under Nigerian law.
Appearing in court, Terry Apala pleaded not guilty to the charge. Following this, the prosecution counsel, S.I. Suleiman, requested a trial date and urged that the defendant be remanded in custody. Terry Apala’s defence counsel, Felix Nwabuda, applied for bail, emphasizing that the musician had voluntarily returned from the UK and honored the EFCC’s invitation.
However, the prosecution opposed immediate bail, arguing that due process must be followed. Justice Akintayo Aluko ruled that Terry Apala should remain in the Ikoyi Correctional Centre until the bail hearing, which is set for May 5, 2025.
The case has sparked debate, particularly about Nigeria’s enforcement of currency protection laws. Fans and industry insiders are watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold.
