Nigerian TikTok Star Merja Kunya Sentenced to 6 Months in Jail for Disrespecting National Currency

Kano, Nigeria:Popular Nigerian TikTok star **Merja Kunya**, who boasts over **one million followers**, has been **sentenced to six months in prison** for **spraying naira notes in the air during a party** — a practice considered **illegal and disrespectful** in Nigeria.

Kunya, 26, admitted guilt during proceedings at the **Federal High Court**, where **Judge Simon Amobeda** ruled that her actions constituted **disrespect to the national currency**, a criminal offense under Nigerian law. While passing the sentence, the judge offered her an alternative: **a fine of 50,000 naira (around \$33 USD)** and a requirement to **launch a public awareness campaign on social media** against currency misuse.

Throwing or “spraying” money during celebrations like weddings or parties is a **cultural tradition in Nigeria**, but it has been **outlawed under the 2007 law** which criminalizes **mutilation or abuse of naira notes**. Punishments can include **up to six months’ imprisonment or a fine of 50,000 naira**.

Merja Kunya has previously been in trouble with authorities due to her **controversial and often provocative videos**, some of which have been labeled **“immoral”** by religious and government bodies. She was arrested **in January by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency EFCC** after a video surfaced showing her **throwing naira notes in a hotel room**. Although she was initially released on bail, her **failure to appear in court** led to her **re-arrest in March**.

She has also faced repeated legal action from the **Sharia enforcement police (Hisbah)** in Kano, a predominantly Muslim state where **religious laws** are strictly implemented.

This case underscores Nigeria’s **increasing crackdown on social media influencers** and public figures under laws aimed at preserving **cultural and financial integrity**, particularly regarding the **symbolism of the national currency**.