Cubana Chief Priest Granted N10m Bail In Naira Abuse Case

Cubana Chief Priest Granted N10m Bail In Naira Abuse Case

The Federal High Court in Lagos State has approved a N10 million bail for Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, along with two sureties in like sum. Cubana Chief Priest, facing charges of tampering and abusing the naira, pleaded not guilty during the trial.Presented before Justice Kehinde Ogundare, the socialite was accused of three counts related to spraying and tampering with Naira notes at a social event in Eko hotel, Lagos. Representing the prosecution, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari appeared, while Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, represented the defendant.During the proceedings, the defence raised a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction and filed a bail application, unopposed by the prosecution. Upon pleading not guilty, the defence emphasized the defendant’s health condition and status as a first-time offender with no prior criminal record. They highlighted Cubana Chief Priest’s role as an employer with over 1000 employees dependent on their jobs, urging the court to grant bail on liberal terms.Responding, the prosecutor left the bail decision to the court’s discretion.This development unfolds amidst ongoing scrutiny over the alleged Naira abuse, with Cubana Chief Priest maintaining his innocence.