Justice M. A. Oyetenu of the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has convicted Etiusen Stephen for illegally spraying naira notes.
Etiusen Stephen was arraigned on July 19, 2024, on two charges related to naira abuse.
He was brought to court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for violating Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act.
One of the charges against Stephen read: “That you, Etiusen Stephen Udo, on or about 27th June 2024, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, did sell forty thousand naira notes (₦40,000) to one Edidiong Usoro. This is an offence under Section 21 (4) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007 and punishable under Section 21 (1) of the same Act.”
Stephen pleaded ‘guilty’ to both charges. Prosecutor Joshua Abolarin asked the court to convict Stephen, sentence him, and order the forfeiture of the ₦40,000 recovered from him to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Defence lawyer Udeme Tom requested a lighter sentence, noting that Stephen was remorseful and a first-time offender.
Justice Oyetenu sentenced Stephen and ordered the ₦40,000 to be forfeited to the Federal Government.
Stephen was arrested on June 27, 2024, in the Shelter Afrique area of Akwa Ibom State. He was caught spraying naira notes and stepping on them while dancing at Ken’s Court Luxury Apartments.
The EFCC reported, “Stephen was seen spraying naira notes and treating them carelessly while at a party with others.”
