A Nigerian lawyer, Ayo Shonaiya, has condemned the continued detention of singer Terry Apala by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of Naira abuse.
In a recent development, Terry Apala was remanded in custody by a Federal High Court in Lagos after being arraigned by the EFCC on charges of Naira abuse. The singer had allegedly trampled on the Naira while dancing during a social event, which is contrary to Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.
The charge reads: “That you, TERRY ALEXANDER EJEH, on the 5th day of January, 2025, at La Madison Place, Oniru, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, whilst dancing during a social event, tampered with Naira notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by marching on the same and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”
Reacting to the singer’s arrest, Shonaiya expressed his disappointment on X.com, revealing that Apala’s situation breaks his heart.
He also noted that incidents like this are significant reasons why many Nigerians choose to leave the country.
“This really breaks my heart. When you hear the saying “Nigeria is not a real place”, this is what it means. When you hear “May Nigeria never happen to you”, this is why Nigerians in droves are escaping this country everyday,” he said.
He also expressed his immense shame whenever he drafts charges with local and inflammatory language.
“Whilst dancing during a social event, tampered with Naira notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by marching on the same”. As a lawyer, I am even ashamed at the drafting of the charge with local and inflammatory language such as “marching” on the notes .If there’s ever a bullshit law in this country, this is it. #FreeTerryApala“
