The hearing of the case involving celebrity bartender Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, at the Federal High Court in Lagos has been postponed to June 25. The adjournment aims to allow the parties involved to continue exploring a potential settlement. Okechukwu is accused of mishandling the Nigerian currency during a social event held at the Eko Hotel in Lagos.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought charges against Cubana Chief Priest on April 17, alleging that he violated Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act of 2007 by spraying and mishandling naira notes. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at N10 million.
Initially scheduled for May 2, the case was postponed as both parties sought a settlement under Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act. During discussions, the defence counsel, represented by Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, requested the withdrawal of a preliminary objection, a move unopposed by the prosecution and subsequently granted by the court.
Although the case was expected to proceed on June 5 with a report on settlement efforts, further delays occurred due to the defence team’s request for adjournment, resulting in the new hearing date of June 25. All stakeholders await a resolution as discussions continue.
