Kano TikTok Influencer Murja Kunya Sentenced to Six
Months for Naira Abuse
On May 28, 2025, the Federal High Court in Kano
sentenced popular TikTok influencer Murja Ibrahim Kunya to six months in prison
for violating the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act by abusing the naira.
Presiding Judge Justice Simon Amobeda offered an alternative of a ?50,000 fine.
Case Background
Murja Kunya, known for her substantial social media
following, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
in January 2025 after a video surfaced showing her spraying naira notes during
a party at Tahir Guest Palace in Kano. This act contravenes Section 21(1) of
the CBN Act, which prohibits the abuse and mutilation of the national currency
After being granted administrative bail, Kunya failed
to appear in court, prompting a manhunt by the EFCC. She was re-arrested on
March 16, 2025, and arraigned on May 20, where she pleaded guilty to the
charges
Sentencing
and Additional Orders
In addition to the prison term or fine, Justice
Amobeda appointed Kunya as an ambassador for the EFCC and CBN to lead online
campaigns against naira abuse. This role leverages her social media influence
to educate the public on respecting the national currency and understanding the
legal consequences of its misuse.
Legal Context
The CBN Act of 2007 criminalizes the abuse and
mutilation of the naira, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. The
EFCC has intensified efforts to enforce this law, targeting individuals who
publicly mishandle the currency.
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