The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has discontinued its case against popular celebrity bartender, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest.
This development unfolded at a Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday, where the court granted the EFCC’s motion to drop the charges.
Cubana Chief Priest faced a three-count charge, including allegations of spraying and tampering with Naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos.
The anti-graft agency arraigned him on April 17, asserting that his actions violated Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act of 2007, which prohibits the abuse of the national currency.
From the onset, Cubana Chief Priest maintained his innocence, entering a not guilty plea.
He was subsequently granted bail, set at N10 million, pending the progression of the case.
The case took a notable shift during the last court session on May 2. Defence counsel Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) informed the court that both parties were in discussions to reach an amicable settlement.
Pursuant to Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act, which allows for the settlement of certain matters, the defence applied for a withdrawal of their preliminary objection to the charges. With no opposition from the prosecution, the court approved this withdrawal.
Wednesday’s court session concluded with the EFCC formally moving to withdraw all charges against Cubana Chief Priest, a motion that the court accepted.
This decision signifies the end of the legal proceedings concerning the alleged Naira abuse, a case that had drawn considerable public attention given Cubana Chief Priest’s high profile.
The decision to discontinue the suit underscores the possibility of out-of-court settlements in financial misconduct cases, reflecting an approach that may balance enforcement with practical resolutions.
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