By Cynthia Abah
A Federal High Court in Lagos has further adjourned the case against celebrity bartender Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, until June 25. The case involves allegations of Naira abuse.
Okechukwu was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on April 17, facing a three-count charge for allegedly spraying and tampering with Naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail in the sum of N10 million.
During the last hearing on May 2, defense counsel Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) informed the court that both parties were exploring a settlement under Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act. Consequently, the defense applied to withdraw a preliminary objection, which the court granted.
The case was adjourned to June 5 for a report on the settlement. However, the defense has now requested another adjournment, and the case has been rescheduled for June 25 for mention.
Okechukwu is accused of tampering with N500 notes while dancing at a social event at Eko Hotel, an act that contravenes Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act of 2007.
