Celebrity barman, Pascal Okechukwu otherwise known as Cubana Chief Priest, is negotiating a deal to settle his naira abuse case out of court, the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos heard on Thursday.
Cubana Chief Priest is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly spraying and tampering with naira notes for two hours on February 13, 2024, at The Eko Hotel in Lagos.
He plead had pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on April 17, 2024 and was granted bail.
At the resumption of proceedings on Thursday, Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the prosecution while Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) announced appearance for the defendant.
The defence counsel told Justice Kehinde Ogundare that the parties were exploring an out-of-court settlement and had applied that the matter be settled under Section 14(2) of the EFCC Establishment Act.
“We have looked at the charge, pursuant to Section 14 of the EFCC Act which encourages plea bargain agreements,” Ojukwu said.
The EFCC’s Buhari confirmed the position.
Ojukwu then prayed the court for a short date for the parties to return and update the court on the deal.
He also withdrew the preliminary objection the defence filed challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the charge.
“In the interest of justice, we’re urging the court to strike out the motion since the prosecution has not responded to it,” he added.
Granting his prayer, Justice Ogundare struck out the preliminary objection.
The judge also adjourned the case till June 5, for a report of the plea bargain agreement.
