Kannywood actress Samha Inuwa jailed for naira abuse

By Folashade Olorunfemi –

The Federal High Court in Kano has sentenced Kannywood actress Saadatu Mohammed Inuwa, popularly known as Samha Inuwa, to six months in prison for a naira mutilation offence.

The prosecution followed her arrest on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The arrest was confirmed by the spokesperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Dele Oyewale, who stated that operatives of the commission’s Kano Zonal Directorate apprehended the actress after a viral video emerged on social media showing her using naira notes to wipe her nose.

Judgement was delivered on Friday by Justice S.M. Shuaibu after the actress was convicted on a one-count charge of naira mutilation, an offence under the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007.

According to the charge, the actress was found guilty of tampering with a N1,000 note in 2022 by soiling it with her nose.

During the proceedings, Inuwa pleaded guilty and begged for leniency, citing her remorse and status as a first-time offender, while the prosecuting counsel, Musa Isah, urged the court to convict and sentence her.

Consequently, Inuwa was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, with the option of a N200,000 fine.

Reports indicate that the EFCC has recently increased enforcement of the naira abuse law by tracking down offenders, particularly money sprayers and other violators. Offenders may be fined or imprisoned, depending on the court’s verdict.

According to Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007, the spraying, stamping, mutilation or abuse of the naira is prohibited. Section 21(3) of the Act prescribes penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for offenders.