EFCC Arrests Maiduguri Woman for Cleaning Nose With N500 Note

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a woman in Maiduguri, Borno State, following a viral video showing her cleaning mucus from her nose using a ₦500 naira note, an act considered naira mutilation under Nigerian law.

The suspect, identified as Fatima Muhammed, was apprehended on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, after the video circulated widely on TikTok. EFCC operatives tracked and arrested her within the Maiduguri metropolis, highlighting the commission’s vigilance against misuse of Nigeria’s legal tender.

In a statement, EFCC confirmed the arrest and said Fatima Muhammed is being detained at the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the commission as investigations continue. She will be charged to court once sufficient evidence is gathered.

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“The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the EFCC arrested one Fatima Muhammed for an alleged Naira mutilation. This followed the circulation of a viral video where the suspect was seen cleaning her nose with a ₦500 note,” the statement read.

The commission reiterated that currency abuse is a punishable offence, and such acts undermine the integrity and value of the Nigerian naira. EFCC has in recent months intensified enforcement against naira mutilation, especially incidents recorded on social media platforms.

The arrest has drawn mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians questioning the focus on naira mutilation amid broader economic challenges, while others support the EFCC’s efforts to protect the national currency.

EFCC Arrests Maiduguri Woman for Cleaning Nose With N500 Note

US Evacuates Embassy Staff in Nigeria, Lists 23 States as ‘Do Not Travel’

The United States government on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, ordered the immediate evacuation of staff and eligible family members from its embassy and diplomatic facilities in Abuja due to a deteriorating security situation in Nigeria. The move follows a comprehensive travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State, warning citizens against travel to multiple Nigerian states over rising crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest.

The advisory specifically named 23 Nigerian states where travel is strongly discouraged. In the northern and central regions, states such as Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, Taraba, Borno, Kogi, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were highlighted for high levels of violent crime and terrorist activity. In the southern and southeastern regions, states including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (except Port Harcourt) were flagged due to kidnapping, unrest, and criminal activity.

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The advisory stated, “Violent crime is common throughout Nigeria. This includes armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape. Kidnappings primarily target dual nationals and Americans, who are often perceived as wealthy.” It added that terrorist groups have collaborated with local gangs, carrying out attacks in soft targets such as markets, malls, hotels, places of worship, schools, and government facilities.

Alongside security concerns, the advisory noted that healthcare services in Nigeria are inconsistent and may not meet U.S. or European standards. Travelers were warned that emergency medical care, specialised treatment, and medicines may be limited, making medical emergencies riskier for foreigners.

The U.S. government urged its citizens in Nigeria to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and safety information. Citizens were also advised to avoid large gatherings and protests, stay vigilant, and maintain situational awareness at all times.

Experts suggest that the evacuation reflects deepening concerns over Nigeria’s security challenges, including ongoing insurgency in the northeast, rising gang activity, and kidnappings across multiple regions, which pose significant threats to foreign nationals and residents.

The U.S. embassy and the Department of State continue to monitor developments closely and have committed to keeping citizens informed about evolving security conditions in Nigeria.

US Evacuates Embassy Staff in Nigeria, Lists 23 States as ‘Do Not Travel’

South African Protesters Force Closure of Nigerian-Owned Nightclub

Hundreds of protesters in KuGompo City, South Africa, marched on Wednesday demanding the closure of California Tavern, a nightclub linked to Nigerians. Demonstrators accused the nightclub of drug-related activities, sparking concerns about community safety and illegal operations.

The protest comes after unrest last week, triggered by the controversial crowning of a Nigerian “king” in Buffalo City, which led to looting of Somali-owned shops and burning of vehicles. Many immigrant-owned businesses in KuGompo city centre shut down amid fears of potential attacks.

Organisers, including anti-immigrant group Operation Dudula, attempted to deliver a memorandum to the nightclub’s management. Police prevented entry to the Belgrave Hotel, where California Tavern operates, to avert clashes and maintain public order.

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Law enforcement maintained a strong presence throughout the demonstration. Captain Hazel Mqala, spokesperson for the KuGompo City Police, said officers were deployed to protect residents and property, noting that drugs had been previously confiscated during patrols.

Later, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana of the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that some criminal elements were dispersed using stun grenades and rubber bullets. One suspect was arrested for assaulting a police officer, and authorities have opened 11 criminal cases after last week’s protests, with two arrests already made.

In response to public pressure, the Belgrave Hotel owners announced the closure of California Tavern, citing community safety concerns. The move aims to ease tensions and prevent further protests in the city.

This incident highlights ongoing anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa and underscores the need for strong law enforcement and community vigilance. Authorities continue to urge residents and business owners to report illegal activities to prevent escalation.

South African Protesters Force Closure of Nigerian-Owned Nightclub