Naira Abuse: Cubana Chief Priest Makes U-turn, Opts for Settlement

Wale Igbintade

Celebrity barman, Okechukwu Pascal popularly called Cubana Chief Priest, charged with the abuse of the Naira by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)has opted for out-of-court settlement.

At the resumption of trial, yesterday, before a federal high court in Lagos, Cubana Chief Priest’s counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), informed Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the defendant’s intention to toe the path of plea-bargain subject to Section 14 of the EFCC Establishment Act.

“We have looked at the charge and pursuant to Section 14 of the EFCC Act which encourages plea bargain agreements,’ he said.
Also, EFCC counsel, Bilkisu Buhari confirmed the position.

Ojukwu then prayed the court to give a short date for parties to return and update the court on the deal.
He also withdrew the earlier preliminary objection he filed challenging the jurisdiction of court to entertain the charge.
“In the interest of justice, we’re urging the court to strike out the motion since the prosecution has not responded to it,” he added.

Granting his prayer, Justice Ogundare struck out the preliminary objection, and also adjourned the case till June 5, for report of the plea bargain agreement.