The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and socialite Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, have opted for an out-of-court settlement concerning the Naira abuse charge leveled against the celebrity barman.
This decision was revealed during the latest court session at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday.
Representing the prosecution, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari appeared, while Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) announced the defendant’s representation.
Ojukwu, the defence counsel, informed Justice Kehinde Ogundare that both parties were exploring the possibility of settling the matter outside of court, citing Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act.
Earlier, Cubana Chief Priest had pleaded not guilty to the charges, which accused him of abusing the Naira during a social event at Eko Hotel on February 13, 2024.
The prosecutor, Bilikisu Buhari, alleged that the defendant sprayed funds in N500 notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) during various social events, contravening the Central Bank Act of 2007.
During the Thursday hearing, Ojukwu informed the court of the ongoing discussions for an out-of-court settlement.
However, Mrs. Buhari confirmed the discussions but stated that no decision had been reached yet.
Consequently, the defence counsel applied to withdraw the preliminary objection, indicating a willingness to reconcile if the prosecution validates the settlement discussions.
As a result, Justice Ogundare adjourned the case to June 5 for a report on the progress of the settlement discussions.
