Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Kelly Okungbowa, a suspended Edo State government official also known as “Ebo Stone,” for allegedly abusing the Nigerian currency.
The arrest, announced on Monday by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, stems from a viral video circulating online purportedly showing Okungbowa spraying and defacing Naira notes at a social gathering.
“Okungbowa was arrested on Monday due to a viral video where he was seen spraying and mutilating naira at a bar,” Oyewale stated.
Prior to his recent suspension, Okungbowa served as the coordinator of the Edo Public Safety Response Team (PSRT) and previously held the position of chairman of the State Asset Recovery Committee.
The EFCC is actively investigating the incident. “Okungbowa will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed,” Oyewale confirmed. The arrest underscores the EFCC’s commitment to enforcing laws against the abuse and defacement of the Nigerian Naira, a practice the agency has repeatedly warned against.
