Why Police Officer Involved Has Been Detained: The Naira Abuse Controversy
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has detained a yet-to-be-named officer seen in a viral video with Wahab and Raheem Okoya, sons of billionaire businessman, Chief Razaq Okoya, engaging in acts that undermine the integrity of the Nigerian naira. This development was confirmed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on his X (formerly Twitter) handle.
In the video, the Okoya brothers, dressed in pristine white agbada, flaunted bundles of N1,000 notes in a display widely perceived as promoting Raheem’s new song, “Credit Alert.” The inclusion of a uniformed police officer in the scene drew significant backlash, prompting swift action by the authorities.
Police Response: Upholding Ethics
Adejobi emphasized that the officer’s actions were not only unethical but also a breach of the core values of the Nigeria Police Force. “The policeman captured in the recent viral video shared by the sons of the Lagos businessman, Chief Okoya, where they were abusing the naira, has been identified and detained for disciplinary action,” Adejobi stated. He reiterated the NPF’s commitment to maintaining credibility and upholding its responsibilities to the public.
This detention underscores the police force’s resolve to enforce discipline among its ranks, regardless of affiliations or the societal status of those involved.
Celebrity Precedents: Justice Must Be Blind
The case has drawn comparisons to past incidents involving prominent individuals convicted of naira abuse. For instance, in February 2024, Nollywood actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was convicted for abusing the naira. Omoseyin was found guilty of desecrating the naira by spraying and trampling on it at a public event. This conviction serves as a stark reminder that the abuse of the naira is a serious offense that will not be overlooked, even when committed by individuals in the spotlight.
Additionally, in 2021, Nollywood actress Funke Akindele and her husband JJC Skillz faced legal action for violating lockdown protocols and were subsequently fined and sentenced to community service. Similarly, controversial musician Portable narrowly escaped prosecution after a video surfaced of him spraying and trampling on naira notes during an event. These instances underscore the message that no one is above the law, irrespective of social or economic standing.
Why the Okoya Sons Should Not Be Spared
The viral video of Wahab and Raheem Okoya abusing the naira has reignited debates about the enforcement of laws in Nigeria. Critics argue that the billionaire status of their father should not shield them from accountability. The naira is a national symbol, and acts of abuse undermine its value, contributing to economic instability and disrespect for the country’s financial system.
To uphold justice and deter future offenders, it is imperative that the Okoya sons face the full weight of the law if found guilty. Their actions not only set a poor example for the youth but also highlight the growing trend of impunity among the elite.
Conclusion
The detention of the police officer involved sends a strong message about the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to maintaining discipline and enforcing the law. Equally, the ongoing investigation into the Okoya sons is an opportunity for the justice system to demonstrate that no individual is above the law. As public outcry grows, all eyes remain on the authorities to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in addressing this issue.
Justice, after all, is the cornerstone of any society that values equality and order.
