The trial of Lagos-based socialite and celebrity barman, Okechukwu Pascal, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, was stalled today at the Federal High Court in Lagos due to the absence of his defense counsel.

Okechukwu was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on April 17, facing a three-count charge for allegedly spraying and tampering with Naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of N10 million.

At the last hearing on May 2, defense counsel Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) informed the court that the parties were exploring a settlement, as provided under Section 14(2) of the EFCC Act. Consequently, Ojukwu applied for the withdrawal of a preliminary objection, which the court granted without opposition from the prosecution.

The court then adjourned the case to June 5 (today) for a settlement report. However, it was learned on Wednesday that the defense had written a letter requesting an adjournment. The case has now been rescheduled for June 25 for mention.

The charges against Okechukwu Pascal state that he tampered with N500 notes while dancing at the social event at Eko Hotel on February 13, 2024. The EFCC alleges that he sprayed the Naira notes for two hours, an offense punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.

Additionally, Count 2 alleges that in 2020, during another social event in Lagos, Okechukwu similarly tampered with N500 notes by spraying them for two hours. Count 3 charges him with a similar offense in January 2024. All charges claim violations of Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.