By Jethro Ibileke
Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have arrested Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for alleged naira abuse.
Okungbowa was until recently, the Coordinator of the State Public Safety Response Team (PSRT), now suspended by the State Government.
His arrest followed a viral video where he was seen spraying and mutilating the Naira at a bar on March 9, 2025.
In the video footage which emerged over the weekend, Okungbowa is seen tossing wads of naira as two scantily dressed exotic dancers danced around him, rubbing the notes on their bodies.
TheNEWS reports that the CBN Act of 2007 criminalizes the abuse of naira notes, including spraying, stepping on, or mishandling currency. Offenders face six months in prison, a ₦50,000 fine, or both.
A statement Monday night by EFCC’s Head, of Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said the suspect will be charged in court as soon as investigations are completed.
Meanwhile, the State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has commended the EFCC, for the swift arrest of Kelly Okungbowa, for alleged naira abuse.
The Publicity Secretary of the State PDP Caretaker Committee, Chris Osa Nehikhare, in a statement on Monday, charged EFCC with thorough investigation and diligent prosecution in accordance with the CBN Act of 2007 which criminalises the abuse of naira notes.
Nehikhare said, “The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) commends the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the swift arrest of Kelly Okungbowa, also known as Ebo Stone for alleged naira abuse.
“The swift arrest of Okungbowa who was seen in a viral video spraying and mutilating the Naira sends a strong message that such criminal and irresponsible actions will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrator’s position or influence.
“We charge the EFCC to carry out a thorough investigation on the matter and ensure diligent prosecution in accordance with the CBN Act of 2007 which criminalises the abuse of naira notes, including spraying, stepping on, or mishandling.”