By Abubakar Yunusa
The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has urged the Olu of Owode-Egba in Ogun State, Oba Aremo Kolawole Sowemimo, to address concerns raised by an online video revealing the traditional ruler adorning a musician with a garland crafted from the national currency during a festive occasion.
Issa-Onilu, emphasizing the NOA’s commitment to preserving national symbols, remarked, “For us, that was an abuse of one of the national symbols of our dear country.”
He stressed the agency’s responsibility to maintain the integrity of these symbols, considering them as defining icons of the sovereign nation.
The DG, while highlighting the legal repercussions, cited Section 21 (3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007, which categorically denounces the spraying, dancing, or handling of the naira during social occasions. He underscored that such actions constitute an offense punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
The Director-General implored the traditional ruler, stating, “We implore you, sir, to join the NOA in finding a solution to the indiscriminate abuse of the currency by enlightening your community members on the legal consequences of the abuse of the Naira and promoting the integrity of all our national symbols.”
Issa-Onilu extended well-wishes to Oba Aremo Kolawole Sowemimo, urging him to consider the broader impact of his actions on the nation’s cultural heritage and emphasizing the importance of respecting national symbols.
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