The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into a man arrested by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for false currency declaration at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The suspect, identified as Okorie Sunday, was detained on March 19, 2025, upon his arrival from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Despite declaring $279,000 at the Currency Declaration Desk, a subsequent search uncovered an additional $299,000 hidden in various packages, bringing the total to $578,000. Authorities also found €100 and a counterfeit $250 among his belongings.
EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 took over the case on March 21, with Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Media and Publicity Head, confirming the transfer. He stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating such crimes.
“The act violated the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011,” said Harrison, an NCS official, adding that any currency exceeding $10,000 must be declared by inbound and outbound passengers.
Ahmed Ghali, Acting Zonal Director of EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, warned against such offenses, stating, “We will not allow anyone to sabotage the economy or the financial system.”
He also emphasized that non-declaration of foreign currency could lead to money laundering risks, tarnishing Nigeria’s global reputation.
The EFCC urges the public to adhere to the legal requirements of currency declaration to safeguard the nation’s financial integrity.
