FG berates Ogun monarch for ‘spraying naira’ on musician during coronation anniversary

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has knocked Aremo Sowemimo, Olu of Owode-Egba, in Ogun state, for “spraying money” on a musician during his 13th coronation anniversary.

The NOA in a letter addressed to the monarch by Lanre Issa-Onilu, director general of the agency, dated January 12, described the act as an “abuse on one of the country’s national symbols”.

The NOA said it is against the law to spray, dance or march on any naira note issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“On behalf of the Management and Staff of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) we send you warm greetings and congratulations on the 13th Anniversary of your ascension to the royal stool as the Olu of Owode-Egba,” the letter reads.”

“We share in the joy of this milestone especially the long years of service as King of an illustrious community, at the gateway of our dear country to another neighbouring nation.

“For us, the peace that has prevailed and economic growth of this community shows that you are a people of peace and, Your Royal Majesty, a worthy leader of his people.

“As we celebrate, His Royal Majesty, we call your attention to an online video where a garland of the national currency was used by you to spray on one of the musicians who played at the event. Sir, for us, that was an abuse of one of the national symbols of our dear country.

“The NOA has the mandate to preserve and promote the integrity of our national symbols and we are compelled to appeal to you and indeed, all traditional rulers to see it as part of your duty to preserve these symbols as part of our national culture.

“These symbols are icons that define us as a sovereign nation and respect for them mean also respect for our country.

“Section 21 (3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007 as amended stipulates that spraying of, dancing or matching on the naira or any note issued by the bank during social occasions or otherwise, howsoever shall constitute an abuse and defacing of the naira or such note and shall be punishable under the law by fines or imprisonment or both.”

The NOA also implored the monarch to join the agency in finding a solution to the abuse of the naira.

“We implore you sir, to join the NOA in finding solution to the indiscriminate abuse of the currency by enlightening your community members on the legal consequences of the abuse of the Naira and promoting the integrity of all our national symbols,” the letter added.

“Kabiyesi, while wishing you greater success in your reign, please accept my best personal regards at all times.”