In a high-profile case that has garnered significant public attention, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has been granted bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos State. The court set the bail at N10 million, requiring two sureties in like sum.
Cubana Chief Priest, a prominent businessman and socialite, had previously pleaded not guilty to charges of tampering and abusing the Nigerian currency during a trial.
The charges, which include three counts, accuse him of violating the provisions of the Central Bank Act of 2007 by allegedly spraying and tampering with the nation’s currency at a social event.
The arraignment took place before Justice Kehinde Ogundare, who presided over the proceedings. According to the court, Cubana Chief Priest’s actions at the event, held at Eko Hotel on February 13, 2024, constituted a breach of the law.
Reports suggest that the celebrity barman engaged in the act of spraying naira notes while dancing, which lasted for a duration of two hours.
The allegations against Cubana Chief Priest stem from his purported involvement in tampering with funds denominated in N500 notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Such actions, as outlined by the prosecution, are considered illegal under the Central Bank Act.
During the court session, Cubana Chief Priest maintained his innocence, refuting the accusations leveled against him. His legal team argued for bail, citing his longstanding ties to the community and his willingness to comply with any conditions set by the court.
After deliberation, the court granted bail to Cubana Chief Priest, setting the amount at N10 million, to be secured by two sureties.
The bail conditions require the sureties to possess properties within the jurisdiction of the court, with evidence of tax clearance for the past three years.
The granting of bail marks a pivotal development in the ongoing legal proceedings against Cubana Chief Priest.
While he awaits further hearings, the case has sparked discussions about the legality and consequences of spraying and tampering with the national currency, particularly in social settings.
Cubana Chief Priest, known for his lavish lifestyle and influence in social circles, has garnered both admiration and criticism for his actions.
The public will closely monitor the outcome of his trial, as it raises broader questions about the responsibility of public figures and the enforcement of financial regulations.
As the legal process unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly on Cubana Chief Priest, whose future now hinges on the outcome of his trial and the decisions of the judiciary.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
