EFCC Arrests Father and Cleric for Currency Counterfeiting

On January 27, 2026, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Akilu Salisu, a 51-year-old father of ten from Malumfashi Local Government Area in Katsina State, along with two others for alleged involvement in currency counterfeiting. The operation was initiated by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during a stop-and-search operation in Kwara State.

The suspects, including self-acclaimed cleric Umar Mikailu Shuaibu from Kafor Wambari Area in Kano State and Nura Garki from Jigawa State, were found in possession of 435 pieces of counterfeit $100 notes and 378 pieces of counterfeit £50 notes. Preliminary investigations revealed that the counterfeit currency was intended for delivery to Shuaibu, who was identified as a key figure in the distribution chain.

Further investigation into Shuaibu's digital payment platform account uncovered multiple suspicious transactions totaling N5 million, for which he could not provide a satisfactory explanation. The suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.