posted 17th March 2025
EFCC Arrests Kelly Okungbowa for Alleged Naira Abuse in Benin
Benin City, Nigeria – Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended Kelly Okungbowa, popularly known as Ebo Stone, on Monday, 17 March 2025, over allegations of naira abuse. The arrest follows the circulation of a viral video showing Okungbowa spraying and damaging Nigerian currency at a bar in Benin City on 9 March 2025.
Okungbowa, who was until recently the coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team (PSRT), had been suspended by the Edo State Government prior to his arrest. The EFCC acted swiftly after the video evidence emerged, spotlighting what authorities have described as a clear violation of laws protecting the integrity of the naira.
An EFCC spokesperson confirmed that Okungbowa is currently in custody and undergoing questioning. “He will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” the official stated, underscoring the commission’s commitment to tackling currency mutilation and related offences.
The incident has sparked renewed debate about the enforcement of Nigeria’s currency laws, with the EFCC intensifying efforts to clamp down on such practices. Okungbowa’s high-profile status as a former state official has only amplified public interest in the case.
