Man Sentenced to Six Months in Prison for Naira Misuse in Asaba

Judge F. A. Olubanjo of the Federal High Court in Asaba, Delta State, delivered a six-month prison sentence to Agbanashi Young for the misuse of Naira notes on Wednesday, March 19, 2026.

Young faced a single charge related to the act of spraying and stepping on Naira notes, which is in violation of Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act of 2007.

According to court documents, Young committed this offense on November 10, 2023, at the Akari Etiti Community during a cultural festival known as "Afor Day." He allegedly mishandled N10,000, consisting of N200 notes issued by the Central Bank, by spraying and trampling on them, which constitutes an illegal act under the aforementioned legislation.

Upon the presentation of the charge, Young admitted his guilt in court. Following his confession, prosecution counsel, Francis Jirbo, urged the court to impose a conviction and a corresponding sentence. In contrast, the defense counsel requested leniency, stating that Young had shown remorse for his actions.

Justice Olubanjo ruled that Young should serve a six-month prison term, or alternatively, pay a fine of N500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira). Additionally, the defendant was required to submit a written undertaking to maintain good conduct in the future.

Young's legal troubles began following his detention by officials from the relevant commission for his actions involving the Naira at the cultural event. He was subsequently charged and convicted in court.