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Lagos Airport Cash Arrest: EFCC Clarifies $6.1 Million Claim, Reveals Real Figures — DocuNews Central Investigation
By DocuNews Central Staff | October 2025
Rumours have been flying across Nigeria’s media space about an alleged $6.1 million cash seizure at Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos. Dozens of news blogs and social-media pages reported that two men had been caught carrying huge sums of foreign currency through Terminal 2 (MMA2).
However, after a careful fact-check and deep review of official statements from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), DocuNews Central can confirm that the viral figure is not accurate. The EFCC has publicly clarified that the seized amount was $6,180 and £53,415, not $6.1 million as earlier reported.
The Viral Claim: $6.1 Million Intercepted at Lagos Airport
The story began spreading rapidly across X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook on October 10 2025. Early posts alleged that security operatives intercepted two passengers at the airport with boxes containing over $6 million in cash.
Several Nigerian outlets such as The Nation, Sahara Reporters, and Legit.ng amplified the story, quoting unnamed “airport sources.” The reports described how the suspects were attempting to board an Aero Contractors flight before being stopped by security officers who discovered the cash.
In many of these articles, the suspects were identified as Mahmud Nasidi and Yahaya Nasidi, with claims that they worked as “security operatives escorting exhibits.” According to those reports, the incident occurred inside MMA2, the privately managed domestic terminal in Ikeja, Lagos.
Because the sum mentioned was unusually large, the report quickly became one of the most discussed stories in Nigeria that weekend. The idea that anyone could move such a staggering amount in cash, within a domestic terminal, raised eyebrows nationwide.
DocuNews Central Fact-Check: Verifying the Official Record
As a responsible news platform, DocuNews Central began digging deeper to verify the story. We reviewed the official communication channels of the EFCC, FAAN, and other reputable national newspapers.
On October 11 2025, the EFCC published an official statement on its verified X (Twitter) handle. In that post, the Commission wrote:
“The EFCC has commenced investigations of two suspects for undeclared $6,180 and £53,415 cash intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.”
This brief but clear message directly contradicted the viral $6.1 million claim. The EFCC’s post made no mention of millions of dollars. Instead, it described a far smaller sum — roughly equivalent to ₦16 million in total value — which is still substantial but nowhere near the exaggerated figure.
Credible Media Confirm EFCC’s Position
Following the EFCC statement, reputable Nigerian media houses such as Premium Times, Punch, and Vanguard immediately updated their reports to align with the Commission’s figures.
- Premium Times published: “EFCC probes two suspects for undeclared $6,180, £53,415 at Lagos Airport.”
- The Punch confirmed the suspects, naming Mamud Nasidi and Yahaya Nasidi.
- Vanguard reported the same figures, noting EFCC’s ongoing investigation.
It became clear that the earlier $6.1 million figure had either been a misinterpretation or an exaggeration to attract clicks.
Where Did the $6.1 Million Story Come From?
After analysing multiple stories, DocuNews Central discovered that the confusion likely started from an early report on The Nation website. That article claimed security operatives had intercepted two men at the airport with over $6.1 million in cash.
Soon after, Sahara Reporters and Daily Trust repeated the same figure, citing a “reliable source at the airport.” Within hours, dozens of blogs copied those headlines, adding sensational language such as “stashed in boxes” or “money-laundering attempt.”
None of those reports cited official documentation or photographic evidence from EFCC or FAAN. The figure appeared to have come from an unnamed source and spread unchecked.
Timeline of Events
- October 9 2025 – Airport staff notice two passengers carrying heavy boxes at MMA2.
- Security officials alert AVSEC and DSS for inspection.
- Foreign currencies in dollars and pounds discovered.
- Passengers detained and handed to EFCC.
- EFCC confirms investigation and clarifies actual figures.
EFCC’s Role and Legal Context
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) enforces anti-money-laundering laws in Nigeria. Travellers must declare any foreign currency exceeding $10,000 at entry or exit points. Failure to declare such sums violates the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
According to Premium Times, EFCC investigators are tracing the source and destination of the funds. The two suspects have given statements, which are being verified through banking channels.
Contradictions and Confusions in Early Reports
- Terminal Dispute: Some said MMA2, others MMA1.
- Identity Confusion: Variations of “Mahmud” or “Mamud.”
- Occupation Dispute: Security escorts vs. ordinary passengers.
- Amount Inconsistency: $6,180 vs. $6.1 million.
What Premium Outlets Reported
Premium Times, Punch, and Vanguard consistently confirmed the smaller figures. The Nation and Sahara Reporters published the larger, unverified claims first. The consistency among reputable papers strengthens the EFCC’s clarification.
Social Media and the Spread of Misinformation
Within hours, thousands had reposted the $6.1 million claim. Influencers and even verified handles shared it without confirming facts. By the time EFCC clarified, many Nigerians already believed the inflated story. The incident shows why readers must verify before sharing.
DocuNews Central’s Analysis: Why the Real Amount Matters
Accuracy in journalism is essential. The difference between $6.1 million and $6,180 changes the entire narrative. A $6.1 million case suggests massive corruption, while $6,180 indicates a declaration violation. The exaggerated figure misled the public and eroded trust.
What Happens Next
According to Punch, both suspects remain under EFCC investigation. Their financial histories are under scrutiny. If found guilty, they may face prosecution under money-laundering and forex laws. FAAN has reportedly strengthened screening at MMA terminals.
Lessons for Journalists and Readers
This case reminds everyone that accuracy must come before speed. Reporters should verify through EFCC, FAAN, or police offices before publication. Readers must cross-check sensational claims. DocuNews Central urges the public to rely on reputable outlets for updates.
Final Verdict: Truth Versus Hype
| Claim | Verification |
|---|---|
| Two suspects arrested with foreign currency | ✅ True |
| The amount was $6.1 million | ❌ False |
| The verified sum was $6,180 + £53,415 | ✅ True |
| EFCC confirmed investigation | ✅ True |
| Names officially released | ⚠️ Not publicly confirmed |
While the arrest occurred, the viral figure of $6.1 million was incorrect. The official sum remains $6,180 and £53,415, as stated by the EFCC.
Conclusion
The Lagos Airport cash-arrest story shows how fast misinformation spreads. DocuNews Central confirms that two suspects were caught with undeclared currency, but the viral $6.1 million claim was false. EFCC’s clarification underscores the importance of verifying facts before sharing.
Sources Cited
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