A Federal High Court in Kano has sentenced popular TikToker and social media influencer Murja Kunya to six months imprisonment for abusing the Nigerian currency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Wednesday.

Justice Simone Amobeda of the Kano Federal High Court delivered the judgment after Kunya pleaded guilty to an amended one-count charge of violating the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which prohibits the abuse and mutilation of the Naira.

According to court records, Kunya was arrested for allegedly spraying Naira notes during her stay at Tahir Guest Palace hotel in Kano. The incident, which was reportedly recorded and shared on social media, attracted the attention of law enforcement agencies.

Evading Justice

The social media personality was initially apprehended in January 2025 and granted administrative bail by the EFCC pending her arraignment. However, she absconded in an attempt to evade legal proceedings when it was time for her court appearance.

After weeks of intensive investigation and surveillance, EFCC operatives successfully re-arrested Kunya on Sunday, March 16, 2025. She was subsequently arraigned on May 20, 2025, where she entered a guilty plea to the charges against her.

The conviction comes as part of ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to enforce laws against the abuse of the national currency. The CBN Act specifically prohibits spraying, dancing or stepping on the Naira at social events, as well as hawking, selling or otherwise trading in the currency notes.

This case highlights the increasing scrutiny of social media influencers and their activities, particularly when they contravene established laws. The EFCC has in recent times intensified its campaign against Naira abuse, with several similar cases being prosecuted across the country.

Kunya, who has a significant following on TikTok and other social media platforms, becomes one of the most high-profile individuals to be convicted under the currency protection laws in recent times.