Cubana Chief Priest, EFCC to Settle Out Of Court

In a surprising turn of events, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and celebrity barman, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, have agreed to settle the naira abuse charge against the socialite out of court. This decision comes after Cubana Chief Priest was arraigned before Justice Kehinde Ogundare at the Federal High Court in Lagos on April 17, 2024, on three counts of allegedly abusing the nation’s currency, specifically for spraying and tampering with the naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail in the sum of N10 million.

The out-of-court settlement was disclosed when the proceedings resumed on May 2, 2024, with the defense counsel informing the court that the parties were exploring a settlement. The defense counsel also applied that the matter be settled pursuant to the provisions of Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act, indicating a desire to withdraw the preliminary objection and allow for reconciliation. The prosecution confirmed the position as true, and the court subsequently adjourned the case until June 5, for a report of settlement.

Cubana Chief Priest was accused of tampering with funds in the denomination of N500 notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying the same for two hours during a social event, contravening the provisions of the Central Bank Act of 2007. This case has garnered significant attention due to its implications for the handling and respect of the national currency. The out-of-court settlement signals a potential resolution to the legal dispute without the need for further court proceedings.