Terry Alexander Ejeh, better known as Terry Apala, has been ordered to remain in custody at a Correctional Centre following his arraignment in the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos. The musician faces charges filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) related to the alleged mutilation of Naira notes.

According to the charge, the incident occurred on January 5, 2025, during a social event at La Madison Place, Oniru, where Ejeh allegedly trampled on Naira notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria. The EFCC claims this act violated Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which prohibits tampering with currency.

Ejeh pleaded not guilty to the charge. The prosecution, led by S.I. Suleiman, requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant in custody until the trial.

The defense, represented by Felix Nwabuda, brought a bail application to the court's attention, filed on April 23, 2025. Nwabuda sought a brief adjournment to hear the bail application and requested that Ejeh be released into the custody of the defense team. Nwabuda emphasized that Ejeh, who had voluntarily returned from the United Kingdom on the invitation of the EFCC, would not evade the proceedings.

The prosecution opposed the bail application, describing it as unusual and asking for more time to review it properly.

Justice Akintayo Aluko ruled against the bail request and adjourned the matter until May 5, 2025, for further consideration. In the meantime, Ejeh will remain at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

This case has garnered significant attention, particularly regarding the legal handling of currency-related offenses involving prominent individuals. The next hearing is expected to determine whether bail will be granted or further actions taken.