The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned Wahab and Raheem Okoya, sons of Nigerian billionaire Chief Razaq Okoya, for questioning over alleged abuse of the naira.
Incident Details
The invitation comes after a video emerged showing the brothers flaunting and spraying bundles of N1,000 notes during a promotional clip for Raheem’s new song, Credit Alert.
In the video, the brothers, dressed in white agbadas, danced while a mobile policeman held and handed them bundles of crisp naira notes, which they tossed into the air.
The display triggered backlash on social media, with many Nigerians criticizing the act as a disregard for the law, particularly concerning regulations on currency handling.
EFCC Involvement
The EFCC, in an invitation signed by Acting Director Michael Wetkas, has directed the brothers to appear at the Lagos office on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 10 a.m., for questioning by the Head of the Special Operations Team.
EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the invitation in a statement to the press.
Police Action
The Nigeria Police Force has also taken action against the mobile policeman featured in the video. Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed that the officer had been identified and detained for his role in the incident.
Public Apology
Raheem Okoya has since issued a public apology via his X (formerly Twitter) account, stating:
“To the Nigerian people, my actions were not intended to cause any trouble or harm. My intentions were pure and naive. I ask for your forgiveness and support as I had no intention of raising such an alarm. I wasn’t fully aware of the consequences of my action.”
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a wider discussion on the accountability of influential individuals and the enforcement of laws against naira abuse. Many Nigerians have expressed skepticism about whether the Okoya brothers will face consequences, citing their father’s wealth and status.
This development underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to uphold currency regulations and address perceived impunity among affluent individuals.