JUST IN: Cubana Chief Priest Granted Bail in Naira Abuse Case
Popular Nigerian socialite Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, has secured bail after facing charges of naira abuse. The Federal High Court in Lagos granted him bail of N10 million with two sureties who must meet specific criteria.
Cubana Chief Priest pleaded not guilty to three counts of “spraying and tampering with Naira notes” during a social event at Lagos’ Eko Hotel.
The case saw Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari representing the prosecution, while Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), defended Cubana Chief Priest. Mr. Ojukwu first challenged the court’s jurisdiction in a preliminary objection before presenting a formal bail application. The prosecution offered no opposition to the bail request.
After the charges were read, Cubana Chief Priest denied any wrongdoing. Mr. Ojukwu argued for lenient bail terms, citing his client’s health condition. He claimed Cubana Chief Priest’s weight caused heart palpitations and that the alleged offense, if proven, carried a maximum penalty of a N50,000 fine or six months imprisonment.
Mr. Ojukwu further emphasized Cubana Chief Priest’s clean criminal record and his role as an employer with over 1,000 staff relying on his ventures. He urged the court to consider these factors and grant his client bail on “liberal terms.”
The prosecutor, in response, left the bail decision to the court’s discretion.
Justice Kehinde Ogundare, presiding over the case, granted Cubana Chief Priest bail for N10 million. However, securing release requires two sureties who must be gainfully employed by the federal or state government, holding a position no lower than level 16. Additionally, these sureties must own landed property with documentation verified by the court.
With bail granted, the case will proceed through the Nigerian legal system. Whether Cubana Chief Priest is ultimately convicted or acquitted remains to be seen. This development offers temporary relief but does not signify a final resolution.
