Nollywood star Deyemi Okanlawon has spoken out against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s ongoing crackdown on naira abuse, expressing concern over what he sees as a lopsided approach targeting entertainers while more serious corruption festers.
In a candid conversation on Nollywood On Radio, Okanlawon questioned the agency’s priorities, arguing that the EFCC’s spotlight on celebrities distracts from deeper, systemic corruption within Nigeria.
“Because something is cultural does not make it right,” the actor said. “We have a culture that does not really emphasise maintaining things. So, yes, let’s start teaching respect for the naira, but let’s not pretend this is our biggest problem.”
While he agreed that national symbols like the naira deserve respect, Okanlawon emphasized that true change would only come if the public sees the EFCC consistently take action against corrupt officials and institutions — not just socialites and influencers.
“If we were hearing daily about corrupt politicians and officials being prosecuted, we’d trust that EFCC’s efforts are sincere,” he said. “Then, if they say stop spraying money, we’d likely comply without hesitation — because we’d believe in the integrity of the message.”
His comments come amid a wave of arrests and investigations involving celebrities. Recently, TikTok influencers TobiNation and TDollar received six-month jail sentences for spraying money. Popular businessman E-Money was also detained — and later released — over alleged abuse of foreign currency.
Nollywood figures including Iyabo Ojo and AY Makun have confirmed they were invited by the commission regarding similar allegations. Musician Terry Apala was recently remanded at Ikoyi Correctional Centre, and TikToker Murja Ibrahim Kunya was rearrested in Kano in March.
The EFCC’s renewed push against naira abuse, citing Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, has raised both applause and eyebrows. While some see it as a necessary step toward restoring value to the national currency, others — like Okanlawon — believe the focus needs to be broader and more balanced.
“Respect for the naira starts with accountability at the top,” he said. “Until then, this just feels like selective enforcement.
