Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, is set to appear in court today, April 17, 2024, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) plans to charge him.
The EFCC reportedly held the socialite ahead of his hearing before Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Okechukwu faces three counts related to abusing the naira at social events.
In a lawsuit filed on April 4, 2024, by EFCC’s prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) and seven others, the agency accused him of tampering with ₦500 notes from the Central Bank of Nigeria for two hours at a social event on February 13, 2024, at Eko Hotel.
The agency stated the alleged crime violates and is punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.
Following the conviction of cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, who received six months in prison for a similar offense, the EFCC announced it is investigating several celebrities for suspected naira abuse.
The agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said, “Many have given statements to the commission and more are being questioned.
“The EFCC will remain committed to its zero-tolerance policy and urges the public to avoid violating the laws against this crime.”
Meanwhile, despite being flooded with videos of naira abuse, the anti-graft agency stated it will focus its investigation and prosecution on new cases of such violations.
