The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed its investigation into an incident involving a Chinese national who allegedly tore Naira notes during a confrontation in Lagos. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed this to FRONTPAGE on Friday.
The incident reportedly occurred at a Chinese-owned company along the Lekki-Epe Expressway when Lagos State Government officials attempted to seal the premises over alleged regulatory violations.
Details of the Incident
In a viral video, the Chinese national was seen resisting the government officials and, during the confrontation, pulled out Naira notes from his bag and tore them. The act sparked outrage on social media, with widespread condemnation from Nigerians who viewed it as a show of disrespect toward the country.
Witnesses at the scene stated that some Nigerian workers at the company shielded the man from being apprehended by the officials. The event has triggered calls for strict punitive measures.
Public Reactions
Social media users expressed their anger, urging authorities to take swift action. Controversial influencer Daniel Regha posted, “The EFCC should arrest this man and charge him to court for committing a punishable offense. Justice must be served fairly.”
Another user, @Qladele, commented, “The Chinese man who disrespected Nigerian currency should be arrested, and the company permanently shut down. Obstructing justice should also have consequences.”
Other users drew comparisons, imagining the backlash if a Nigerian had committed a similar act in China. @PureStanley1 wrote, “If a Nigerian tore the Chinese Yuan in China, the consequences would be severe. This is a massive insult to Nigeria.”
Legal experts also weighed in, with lawyer Tolu Babaleye asserting that the Chinese national could face trial under Nigerian law. “Mutilating Naira notes is an offense, and the individual should be arrested, tried, and, if convicted, sentenced,” Babaleye explained.
EFCC’s Position
When contacted, the EFCC confirmed it is looking into the matter. “The EFCC is looking into the issue, please,” said Oyewale.
The incident has intensified calls for accountability and the enforcement of laws to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s currency and sovereignty.
