The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and celebrity barman, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, have resolved to settle a Naira abuse charge slammed against the socialite out of court.
The out of court settlement was made known at the resumption of proceedings on Thursday.
Recall that the Federal High Court in Lagos State, on April 17, granted Cubana Chief Priest N10m bail with two sureties in like sum.
He was arraigned before Justice Kehinde Ogundare on three counts bordering on abuse of Naira, spraying and tampering with the nation’s currency at a social event which was contrary to the provisions of the Central Bank Act of 2007.
Cubana Chief Priest was alleged to have sprayed the Naira on February 13, 2024 at Eko Hotel.
The socialite was said to have also committed the offences while dancing during a social event.
However, at the resumption of proceedings on Thursday Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the prosecution, while Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, announced appearance for the defendant.
READ ALSO: Cubana Chief Priest gets N10million bail for Naira abuse
Cubana Chief Priest’s counsel told the court that there was a move to settle the issue out of court.
The defense counsel informed the court that the parties were exploring settlement and have applied to have the matter settled pursuant to the provisions of section 14(2) of the EFCC Act.
He told the court that if the prosecution confirmed the position as true, there would be a need to apply for a withdrawal of the defense’s preliminary objection and allow for a reconciliation.
In response, the prosecutor confirmed the position as stated by the defense council and told the court that the application was still being considered.
Following the position, the defense counsel applied for a withdrawal of the preliminary objection since there was no objection from the prosecution and the court granted the same.
The court consequently adjourned the case until June 5 for the report of settlement.
Credible News.ng
