Prominent Kannywood actress Samha Inuwa remains in custody following her arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of currency abuse, in what appears to be the latest enforcement action against the mishandling of Nigeria’s national currency.
Operatives from the EFCC’s Kano Zonal Directorate apprehended the actress on Tuesday, February 3, bringing her into detention for questioning over conduct that has sparked widespread public outcry on social media.
The arrest stems from a video that went viral across various social media platforms, showing Inuwa using Naira notes to wipe mucus from her nose—an act that authorities say constitutes mutilation and abuse of the national currency. The video triggered immediate public reaction and drew the attention of the anti-graft agency, which has in recent years intensified its crackdown on currency abuse.
In a statement confirming the development, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the commission moved swiftly after the video surfaced online. “The video prompted swift action from the Commission,” Oyewale stated, indicating that operatives tracked down the actress following the widespread circulation of the footage.
Inuwa, who has built a considerable following in the Northern Nigerian film industry known as Kannywood, is currently being held at the EFCC’s detention facility as investigators continue to gather evidence and build their case. According to Oyewale, the actress is cooperating with authorities during the ongoing investigation.
The EFCC spokesperson further disclosed that upon completion of the investigation, Inuwa will be arraigned in court to face formal charges related to the alleged currency mutilation.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to enforce laws protecting the integrity of the naira. Currency abuse, including spraying money at social events, stepping on notes, or defacing them, has become a recurrent issue in Nigeria, particularly within entertainment and social circles. The Central Bank of Nigeria Act prohibits the abuse, mutilation, and defacement of the national currency, with violators facing potential fines or imprisonment.
This is not the first high-profile arrest involving currency abuse in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, as authorities have previously detained musicians, socialites, and other public figures for similar offenses.
As investigations continue, the case has reignited public debate about the treatment of Nigeria’s currency and the role of public figures in setting appropriate standards of conduct.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Kannywood actress Samha Inuwa has been arrested by the EFCC for allegedly abusing the Naira after a viral video showed her using currency notes to wipe her nose. She remains in detention pending investigation and will face court charges.
The case serves as a stark reminder that mishandling Nigeria’s national currency is a criminal offense with serious legal consequences, regardless of one’s celebrity status.
