During a period meant to celebrate the values of faith, gratitude and human dignity, a deeply troubling video has emerged appearing to show the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello, engaging in the careless abuse and mutilation of the national currency
Niger Governor’s Naira Abuse Demands Accountability. In footage circulating from the town of Kagara, the governor can be seen throwing naira notes haphazardly from a moving vehicle amidst a crowd of people. This brazen act of disrespecting the naira constitutes a clear violation of the laws prohibiting the defacing and mishandling of legal tender as outlined in the CBN Act.
But more than just a legal transgression, the governor’s actions represent a profound lack of decorum and regard for human dignity that is particularly egregious coming from a leader who should be setting an example of ethical conduct, especially during the sacred Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
As the Qur’anic verse 17:70 reminds us, God has indeed honored humanity and granted us dignity that must be upheld. Throwing money indiscriminately at people as if they were animals completely undermines this core tenet of respect for human beings. There are far more dignified means of charitable giving.
One would expect that a Muslim leader would be particularly mindful of Islamic injunctions promoting humility, wisdom and compassion during occasions of faith observance. The reckless, immature behavior on display here sullies the very spirit of Eid and its emphasis on self-reflection, discipline and consideration for others.
Sadly, it seems the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the very body tasked with enforcing the laws against abuse of the naira, has once again opted to look the other way when ruling elites are involved. This is despite the recent harsh sentencing of individuals like crossdresser Bobrisky for similar currency infractions.
Such unequal application of the law only serves to reinforce the negative perception that there are separate rules for the powerful and connected in Nigeria. It mocks the concept of true justice and accountability before the law.
If the Governor of Niger State did indeed perpetrate these currency misdeeds, he should be compelled to answer for them just like any ordinary citizen. A clear message needs to be sent that no one is above upholding the respect and dignity due to both the naira and the Nigerian people it represents.
At a minimum, the governor owes the public an explanation and a sincere apology for conduct unbefitting of his office. Ultimately, he must be held to full account under the law. Anything less will be a dereliction of the EFCC’s duty and an insult to the principles of ethical leadership the whole nation should be striving towards, especially during moments of cultural and religious significance.
Reference
Clean Notes Policy Published in CBN