On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the Federal High Court in Lagos dismissed the naira abuse charges against celebrity bartender Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest.
The charges were brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
As part of an out-of-court settlement, Okechukwu agreed to forfeit N10 million to the Federal Government. This agreement was formalized and adopted in court.
During the proceedings, EFCC counsel Bilkisu Buhari-Bala informed the court about the settlement agreement signed by both parties. Okechukwu’s counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chikaosolu Ojukwu, praised the EFCC’s reasonable approach to resolving the matter and mentioned that Okechukwu is remorseful and committed to improving his behavior.
Justice Ogundare, in his ruling, adopted the terms of the settlement and dismissed the charges.
The terms of the settlement agreement, pursuant to Section 14(2) of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004, include: the defendant has agreed to a bond with the EFCC to maintain good behavior and refrain from any economic and financial crimes or related offenses.
Also, the defendant will actively participate in sensitization campaigns against the abuse of currency issued under the CBN Act as legal tender, the defendant will post at least two video clips bi-monthly on his social media platforms, promoting awareness against naira abuse and related offenses.
Additionally, the defendant will pay a sum not less than N10 million to the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation upon the execution of this agreement.
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