It is a criminal offence to reject the Naira, Bribes now paid in dollars – Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has raised concerns over the increasing trend of bribes and payments being made in foreign currency, warning that the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy not only undermines the naira but also fuels corruption.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics on Sunday night, September 14, Falana argued that the widespread use of the dollar, even by government officials, exacerbates Nigeria’s economic challenges and erodes confidence in the national currency.

He cited recent examples, noting, “The president was announcing gifts to footballers in dollars, not naira. It has to stop. We must promote the naira, not the dollar.”

Falana reminded Nigerians that it is unlawful to reject the naira for domestic transactions, emphasizing: “As a matter of fact, it is a criminal offence to reject the naira. We need to stop paying fees and buying properties in dollars.”