
TikTok Star Jailed for Naira Abuse: Viral Video Leads to Historic Sentence
The Federal High Court in Kano has sentenced controversial TikToker Murja Ibrahim Kunya to six-month imprisonment (or ₦50,000 fine) for abusing the Nigerian currency, following her guilty plea to spraying and trampling Naira notes in a viral hotel video. In a unprecedented move, Justice Simone Amobeda also appointed Kunya as an EFCC and CBN ambassador for anti-currency abuse campaigns.
The Crime: December 2023 Viral Fiasco
- Viral Evidence: Video showed Kunya dancing while spraying/trampling Naira notes at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano.
- Legal Breach: Violated Section 21(1) of CBN Act 2007 prohibiting currency mutilation.
- EFCC’s Case: “She desecrated national sovereignty,” stated prosecutor Musa Isah.
Dodging Justice: Hide-and-Seek with EFCC
- Jan 2025: Arrested and granted administrative bail.
- Evasion Tactics: Skipped arraignment, went into hiding for weeks.
- Re-arrest: EFCC tracked and captured her on March 16, 2025, after surveillance.
Guilty Plea & Sentence: Court’s Stern Message
- May 20, 2025: Kunya pleaded guilty to amended charge.
- June 5, 2025: Justice Amobeda imposed:
- 6-month jail term or ₦50,000 fine
- Mandatory ambassadorship for EFCC/CBN’s anti-Naira abuse campaigns
“Utilize your social media reach to educate followers on respecting the Naira.”
― Court order
Unusual Punishment: The “Ambassador” Mandate
- Rehabilitation Twist: Kunya must lead online campaigns highlighting:
- Legal consequences of Naira abuse
- Cultural/economic value of currency
- Precedent Set: First Nigerian influencer sentenced to become a regulatory advocate.
Why This Verdict Resonates
- Deterrence Focus: EFCC intensifies crackdown after Bobrisky’s 2024 conviction.
- Social Media Accountability: 5M+ viewed Kunya’s video – ruling warns against “clout-chasing crimes.”
- National Symbolism: Reinforces Naira as protected national emblem.
Public Reactions:
- “Finally! Influencers can’t disrespect our currency for views.” – @LegalNaija
- “Ambassador role is genius – turn negative influence positive.” – @SocialJusticeNG
Why This Matters:
As Nigeria battles currency abuse (₦18B mutilated notes yearly), this blend of punishment and rehabilitation could redefine legal responses to social media offenses.
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