A Nigerian TikTok influencer, Murja Ibrahim Kunya, has been sentenced to six months in prison for violating the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act by spraying naira notes at a party. The Federal High Court in Kano convicted Kunya after she pleaded guilty to the offense, which is considered a form of currency abuse under Nigerian law.
📸 Murja Kunya’s Arrest and Court Appearance
Murja Kunya, known for her significant following on TikTok, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in March 2025. The arrest followed a viral video showing her spraying naira notes in a hotel room in Kano. Initially granted administrative bail, Kunya absconded, leading to a rearrest after weeks of investigation. She was subsequently arraigned and sentenced to six months in prison, with an alternative fine of ₦50,000. Additionally, she was ordered to launch an online campaign against naira abuse using her platform.
🎥 Public Reaction and Cultural Context
The practice of spraying money, known locally as “making it rain,” is a common celebratory act at Nigerian weddings and parties. However, it has been illegal since 2007 under the CBN Act, which prohibits the abuse and mutilation of the naira. Despite its illegality, the tradition persists, leading to recent crackdowns by the EFCC. Critics argue that the enforcement is selective, often targeting influencers and celebrities, while others, including political figures, appear to be exempt.
The EFCC’s actions have sparked debates about the balance between cultural practices and the need to uphold national laws. Supporters of the crackdown believe it is necessary to protect the integrity of the currency, while detractors view it as an overreach that disproportionately affects the youth and entertainers.
