Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has urged the National Assembly to repeal Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007, which criminalizes the abuse of the Naira.
In a letter addressed to the lawmakers, Adeyanju raised concerns about the law’s application, arguing that it fails to differentiate between intentional mutilation and cultural practices.
In his letter, Adeyanju cited a quote from Huey P. Newton: “Laws should be made to serve the people. People should not be made to serve the laws.”
He emphasized that laws should reflect the cultural realities of the people they govern, warning that when laws clash with people’s lived experiences, it breeds tension and alienation.
Adeyanju went on to explain that activities such as spraying money during celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and funerals are deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, symbolizing joy, generosity, and goodwill. He noted that these acts are not simply displays of wealth, but hold significant cultural and emotional meaning.
He criticized the recent enforcement of Section 21 of the CBN Act, which criminalizes acts such as spraying, defacing, or writing on Naira notes, noting that it unfairly targets culturally significant practices.
“While the law aims to protect the integrity of the Naira, its application is inconsistent. It fails to distinguish between cultural practices and intentional currency destruction,” he said.
Adeyanju further pointed out the irony that the most severe forms of Naira mutilation happen in daily transactions rather than at cultural events.
“In markets, churches, and mosques, Naira notes are folded, squeezed, and worn out over time. This natural wear and tear is not criminal, but an inherent part of currency usage,” he added.
He argued that the law fails to acknowledge the symbolic and cultural value of money in Nigerian society, reducing it merely to an economic tool.
“The law should protect the Naira, but it must also respect the traditions that give it meaning beyond its economic function,” he explained.
In light of these issues, Adeyanju urged the National Assembly to amend Section 21 of the CBN Act, advocating for a distinction between deliberate mutilation and cultural practices like money spraying. He also called for public education on responsible currency handling rather than criminalizing cultural expressions.
He concluded by asserting, “Any law that targets the cultural practices of the people is out of touch with Nigerian realities. The law should serve the people, not the other way around. I call on the National Assembly to ensure that legal protections for the Naira align with our traditions and are applied fairly.”
Adeyanju also expressed his willingness to work with lawmakers, cultural leaders, and legal experts to develop a framework that balances legal protection with respect for Nigerian traditions.
