Kano Federal High Court Sentences Kannywood Actress Samha Inuwa to Six Months for Naira Mutilation
Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.
A Federal High Court in Kano has sentenced Kannywood actress Saadatu Mohammed Inuwa, popularly known as Samha Inuwa, to six months’ imprisonment for the abuse and mutilation of the Nigerian currency. The conviction was delivered on Friday, February 13, 2026, by Justice S.M. Shuaibu of the Federal High Court sitting in Kano. The actress was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on the mutilation of the naira, an offence punishable under the Central Bank of Nigeria Act. Court Ruling and Legal Basis according to court proceedings, Inuwa was found guilty of violating provisions of the Act which criminalize the spraying, defacing, or otherwise tampering with the Nigerian currency. Section 21 of the law prohibits the abuse of the naira, including its mutilation at social events — a practice that has drawn increasing scrutiny from law enforcement agencies in recent years. Justice Shuaibu ruled that the offence warranted custodial sentencing, underscoring the judiciary’s stance on enforcing currency protection laws amid growing concerns over the widespread spraying and mishandling of the naira at public functions. Regulatory Crackdown on Naira Abuse the Central Bank of Nigeria has repeatedly warned against currency mutilation, citing its economic implications and the cost of replacing damaged notes. In collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, authorities have intensified enforcement actions targeting public figures and event organizers involved in the practice.Legal analysts note that recent prosecutions signal a broader effort by regulators to deter violations and reinforce respect for the national currency, particularly amid economic reforms and monetary stabilization policies. Public and Industry Reaction the sentencing of a prominent Kannywood figure has sparked conversation within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where spraying money at ceremonies remains culturally embedded. Observers say the ruling may prompt greater compliance with currency laws among celebrities and event planners. While the court did not indicate the possibility of a fine in lieu of imprisonment in this case, legal experts suggest that appeals remain an option under Nigerian law. Wider Context Nigeria has in recent years witnessed a string of prosecutions linked to naira abuse, reflecting what authorities describe as a zero-tolerance approach. Financial regulators argue that currency integrity is critical to national economic stability and public confidence.Reputable national media outlets, including Premium Times, The Punch, and Daily Trust, have reported on the court proceedings and the broader enforcement drive against currency mutilation. Sources PremiumTimes, ThePunch, DailyTrust.
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