Naira abuse: EFCC, Cubana Chief Priest to settle out of court
Celebrity barman, Pascal Okechukwu is seeking to explore an out-of-court settlement with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the naira abuse charge against him
Recall that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had on April 17 arraigned Okechukwu on three counts of allegedly spraying and tampering with the naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos State.
He had pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted bail in the sum of N10 million.
Justice Kehinde Ogundare had then adjourned the case until May 2, for a hearing of the preliminary objection and trial.
At the resumption of proceedings, the defense counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) informed the court that the parties were exploring out-of-court settlement and In light of the reconciliatory spirit, they also withdrew the notice of preliminary objection to enable them explore settlement.
The counsel to the defendant added that having looked at evidences and in line with Section 14(2) of the EFCC establishment act which enables them compound offenses in the interest of justice.
The counsel to the defendant added that having looked at evidences and in line with Section 14(2) of the EFCC establishment act which enables them compound offenses in the interest of justice.
The counsel to the defendant suggested the 5th of June for report of settlement, subject to the overriding confidence of the court which The judge, justice Kehinde agreed to for the hearing of report of settlement.
Recall that following his release, Cubana had turned a new leave and had adopted a new system of spraying money.
The celebrity bar man had attended a wedding ceremony and in viral videos, the businessman had avoided spraying money at the party. Improvising, Cubana had made a transfer.
Making a case for the commission, Cubana Chief Priest told Nigerians that there was no need to run when EFCC invited them, as he admonished them to just pull up and answer them.
The businessman revealed that in their cell there is a bed, toilet, and bathroom as well as breakfast, lunch, and dinner is being served. Questioning why people are running and how long they would run, he added that EFCC is for big men and for me, it is a status symbol.
By Ezinne Okorie.
