KAYODE EGBETOKUN, EFCC CHAIRMAN
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into a troubling incident involving a Chinese national who was seen tearing Naira notes in Lagos. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the investigation to our correspondent on Friday.
The confrontation occurred at a Chinese-owned company situated along the Lekki-Epe Expressway when officials from the Lagos State Government arrived to seal the premises due to alleged regulatory violations. Footage of the incident went viral, showing the Chinese national resisting the closure while pulling Naira notes from his bag and tearing them, provoking widespread outrage on social media.
Witnesses reported that some individuals believed to be Nigerian employees at the company attempted to shield the man from apprehension by the Lagos State officials.
The incident has ignited a strong backlash, with many Nigerians calling for the immediate arrest of the Chinese national. Social media users have expressed their outrage, urging authorities to take quick action.
Controversial social media influencer Daniel Regha tweeted, “The EFCC should arrest this man and charge him to court for committing a punishable offense. However, I’m concerned about the selective application of justice in Nigeria. If this were a high-ranking politician or their associates, the case would likely go nowhere.”
Another user, @Qladele, remarked, “The Chinese man who disrespected Nigerian currency should be arrested. The company involved should also be permanently shut down. Disrespecting your host country must have consequences.”
User @Dele93748586 echoed similar sentiments, insisting on arrests and permanent closure, while @PureStanley1 highlighted the insult to Nigeria, stating, “Imagine if a Nigerian went to China and tore the Chinese Yuan after the government sealed his business. This is a huge blow to Nigeria.”
Legal practitioner Tolu Babaleye affirmed that the Chinese national could face legal repercussions under Nigerian law since he is not a diplomat. “He can be arrested, tried, and if convicted, sentenced for mutilating Naira notes,” Babaleye said.
Responding to inquiries about the EFCC’s next steps, Oyewale stated, “The EFCC is looking into the issue, please.”
