A federal High Court in Lagos today sentenced actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin to six months imprisonment for spraying and stepping on new Naira notes at a social event.

The act was captured in a video that went viral, sparking outrage and leading to her arrest.

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke found Omoseyin guilty of violating the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, which prohibits the mishandling of the national currency.

The prosecution presented overwhelming evidence, including the viral video and statements from witnesses, leaving the defendant with no choice but to change her plea from “not guilty” to “guilty.”

During the trial, the court heard that Omoseyin had attended a friend’s wedding on January 28, 2023, where she flaunted and then proceeded to spray and step on new N200 and N100 notes. The EFCC investigation revealed that the defendant’s actions were not spontaneous, as she admitted to receiving the money from fans at the event.

The defense counsel pleaded for leniency, citing the defendant’s lack of prior offenses and her remorse. However, Justice Aneke emphasized the seriousness of the crime, highlighting the importance of respecting the national currency and the negative impact such actions can have on the nation’s economy.

The sentence of six months imprisonment with an option of a N300,000 fine sends a strong message to the public about the consequences of disrespecting the Naira. This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal repercussions for mishandling currency and the importance of treating it with care.