By Erewunmi Peace

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested a popular female cleric, Archbishop Angel Oyeghe, in Warri, Delta State, over alleged abuse of the naira and suspected money-laundering activities.

The founder of Faith Healing Ministry was taken into custody by officials of the EFCC Benin Zonal Directorate following a viral video that showed her church members spraying naira notes on a live cow during a thanksgiving service.

According to the EFCC, the act constitutes a violation of Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, 2007, which prohibits the mutilation or abuse of the national currency. Investigators also said the cash displayed in the viral recording raised suspicions of possible money-laundering.

The cleric has reportedly made “useful statements” in the course of interrogation and will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.

The EFCC has in recent months intensified its clampdown on naira abuse following a nationwide campaign against currency spraying at social events, public gatherings, and religious functions.

Archbishop Oyeghe’s arrest has continued to generate reactions within the Warri community, with some church members expressing shock while others insist the EFCC acted within its mandate.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.