#JP2025: EFCC invites Iyabo Ojo

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) has invited Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo over spraying of money at her daughter, Priscilla’s recent wedding.

In a statement shared on her Instagram page, Iyabo confirmed that she received an invitation from the EFCC while she was in the United Kingdom. Upon returning to Nigeria, she honored the invitation and visited the commission’s office on May 5, 2025.

During the visit, she was questioned about her personal background, career, and business interests. She said EFCC officials also presented video clips from her daughter’s wedding showing guests, including friends and colleagues, spraying both Naira and foreign currencies.

According to the actress, she was asked whether she was aware that such actions were illegal. She explained that she had believed only the abuse or mutilation of the Naira was a punishable offense. However, she was informed that spraying money—whether Naira or foreign currency—is also prohibited by law.

Iyabo said she was surprised by this clarification but cooperated fully with the commission. She was allowed to leave the same day, though her lawyer, O.I. Salami, stood in for her in case further inquiries were necessary.

Following the experience, the actress issued a warning to Nigerians, advising them to be cautious with the popular practice of money spraying at events. She said it might be time for people to rethink the long-standing tradition to avoid running afoul of the law.

She wrote:

“Good afternoon, lovely people.

Following the recent media publication on social media and numerous calls and texts messages from different quarters seeking to hear from me on the EFCC invitation and to ascertain my welfare, I find it expedient to release this briefing.

I recently had an experience with the EFCC in Nigeria after receiving an invitation letter while I was in the UK. Upon my return, I visited the EFCC on the 5th day of May 2025, where I was asked several questions relating to my personal bio data, career, work experience, and companies, amongst others.

The EFCC officials showed me videos extracted from my daughter’s wedding where guests, including colleagues and friends, were spraying Naira and foreign currencies.

I was asked if I knew this was illegal, and I explained that I thought only abuse or mutilation of the Naira was an offense.

The EFCC officials clarified that spraying money, including on people’s bodies, is prohibited. I was surprised to learn that spraying any currency, including Dollars, is also not allowed.

After questioning, I was allowed to leave the same day, but my personal lawyer, O.I. Salami stood in for me as I may be called upon again.

Given this experience, I strongly advise against spraying any currency in Nigeria to avoid issues with the EFCC.

Perhaps it’s time to reconsider this long-standing tradition. Let’s prioritize caution and avoid any potential problems.

Thank you.

Alice lyabo Ojo“