The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Kelly Okungbowa, widely known as Ebo Stone, for allegedly abusing the Nigerian currency. Okungbowa, who was the coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team, was suspended by the state government following a viral video that showed him spraying and mutilating naira notes at a bar on March 9, 2025.
The EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Monday. He stated that Okungbowa was taken into custody by operatives from the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate. The anti-graft agency is currently investigating the matter, and Okungbowa is expected to be charged in court once the investigation is complete.
Meanwhile, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed support for the EFCC’s actions. The party, through its Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, noted that the arrest was a necessary step in upholding the law.
Nehikhare stated, “The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) commends the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the swift arrest of Kelly Okungbowa, also known as Ebo Stone, for alleged naira abuse.”
He further noted that Okungbowa’s arrest serves as a strong warning to others that such acts will not be tolerated, regardless of a person’s influence or status. He urged the EFCC to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure proper prosecution in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act of 2007, which makes the abuse of naira notes a criminal offense.
