Popular Nigerian Socialite Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, is seeking an out-of-court resolution with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding allegations of Naira abuse brought against him.
This move was disclosed by his lawyer, Senior Advocate Chikaosolu Ojukwu, during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Lagos, before Justice Kehinde Ogundare.
Ojukwu informed the court that both parties had applied for a settlement in accordance with section 14(2) of the EFCC Act. He stated that if the EFCC verifies this request, the defence will seek to withdraw their preliminary objection to facilitate a resolution.
EFCC prosecutor Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari confirmed the application and mentioned that the Commission was reviewing it. Consequently, the defence counsel requested the withdrawal of their preliminary objection, which was granted by the court without objection from the prosecution.
The case was adjourned until June 5 for a progress report on the settlement.
In April, Cubana Chief Priest was charged by the EFCC with three counts related to the alleged spraying and mishandling of Naira notes at an event in Lagos. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at N10 million with two sureties, each at least grade level 16 government officers, possessing property within the court’s jurisdiction. He surrendered his passport to the court and must fulfill his bail conditions within seven days.
Meanwhile, in a separate case earlier in April, the EFCC had similarly charged controversial figure Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, with related offenses, resulting in a six-month jail sentence.
