Nigerian activist and social commentator, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as Verydarkman (VDM), has publicly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for inviting former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, over a viral video in which money was sprayed during a masquerade ceremony.
The EFCC’s action followed public calls for Tompolo’s prosecution, with the agency stating that no individual is above the law.
However, in his video response, VDM expressed concerns that the commission’s approach to naira mutilation could ignite tension by clashing with traditional cultural practices.
“You see EFCC, I know this your naira mutilation war go soon clash with our culture and traditions. And e don happen now,” VDM stated, warning that the agency may be overreaching in its interpretation of such practices.
He questioned the EFCC’s priorities, arguing that its focus on cultural events involving money spraying was misplaced, especially when larger financial crimes often go unpunished. “You people left all the big men committing crimes and started chasing masquerades and naira sprayers. You go soon shoot yourself for leg,” he cautioned.
VDM acknowledged that the Central Bank of Nigeria Act prescribes a fine of N500,000 or six months’ imprisonment for naira mutilation. However, he emphasized the need for context when interpreting such actions, especially in traditional settings.
He argued that the act seen in the video was part of a spiritual tradition rather than a public display of affluence or disregard for currency laws. “For their tradition, whatever you spray for that masquerade, you get am back in twofold. If na gold you throw, you get gold. This one na culture,” he explained.
VDM’s remarks reflect a growing concern about the potential for cultural and legal conflict as authorities clamp down on naira abuse while traditional practices remain deeply rooted in many communities.
