Naira Abuse: Cubana Chief Priest Ordered To Pay ₦10m Fine
Justice Kehinde Ogundara of the Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered celebrity bartender and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, to pay ₦10 million to the Federal Government as a fine for alleged abuse of the Naira.
This decision was reached as part of a settlement agreement with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which was adopted by Justice Ogundara on Tuesday.
During the proceedings, EFCC Counsel Bilkisu Buhari-Bala informed the court that both parties had agreed to an out-of-court settlement, which was duly signed by both parties.
The defendant’s counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chikaosolu Ojukwu, commended the anti-graft agency for its reasonable approach in resolving the matter. He stated that the defendant is remorseful and promises to reform his behavior.
Ojukwu added that, as part of the settlement, the court should dismiss the charges.
In a brief ruling, Justice Ogundara adopted the terms of the settlement and consequently struck out the charges.
The settlement agreement, pursuant to Section 14 (2) of the EFCC Establishment Act, 2004, stipulates:
– The agreement applies only to findings related to the contraventions of the law in the pending charges against the defendant.
– The defendant shall enter into a bond with the EFCC to maintain good behavior and refrain from any economic and financial crimes or related offenses.
– The defendant shall engage in rigorous and intensive campaigns against the abuse of coins and notes issued under the CBN Act as legal tender.
– The defendant shall bi-monthly post a minimum of two video clips on his social media handles, promoting his campaign against the abuse of the Naira and other related offenses.
– The defendant shall pay ₦10 million to the consolidated revenue fund of the Federation upon the execution of this agreement.
Cubana Chief Priest confirmed the development on his Instagram page, also cautioning Nigerians against naira mutilation.
