The Federal High Court in Lagos dismissed a charge against Pascal Okechukwu, the celebrity bartender known as Cubana Chief Priest, regarding alleged naira abuse.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) brought charges against Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, on April 17, accusing him of unlawfully handling and spraying naira notes at a social event held at Eko Hotel in Lagos. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦10 million.

During subsequent court proceedings, both parties explored settlement under section 14(2) of the EFCC Act. The defence withdrew a preliminary objection, and after a series of adjournments due to counsel’s absence, they finally presented terms of settlement on June 25. Bilikisu Buhari represented the prosecution, while Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) appeared for the defence. The prosecution filed and adopted the terms, which included the defendant entering into a bond of good behaviour, engaging in public awareness campaigns against naira abuse, and making a financial contribution to the Federation’s revenue fund.

In response, the defence agreed with the terms and requested the court to dismiss the case accordingly. The court, citing the agreement between both parties and pursuant to the EFCC Establishment Act, subsequently struck out the charge against Cubana Chief Priest.