EFCC Detains Cubana Chief Priest for Naira Abuse Ahead of Court Arraignment

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, before Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Cubana Chief Priest has been detained by the EFCC in preparation for his court appearance, where he will face charges related to the abuse of the naira at a social event.

The EFCC has accused Cubana Chief Priest of spraying and tampering with funds in the denomination of ₦500 notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for two hours while dancing at a social event on February 13, 2024, at Eko Hotel.

This alleged offense is in violation of Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.

The detention and upcoming arraignment of Cubana Chief Priest follow the conviction of a controversial cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months imprisonment for a similar offense.

The EFCC has stated that many celebrities are being investigated for alleged abuse of the national currency.

In a recent statement, the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, emphasized that the agency would not relent in its “no-sacred-cow mode of operations” and warned the public to be wary of running afoul of laws against the crime.

The agency clarified that its investigation and prosecution of naira abusers will focus only on new cases of such infractions.

Cubana Chief Priest’s arraignment comes amid a broader crackdown on the abuse of the naira at social events.

The EFCC’s actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing the Central Bank Act and protecting the integrity of the national currency.

As the agency continues to investigate and prosecute such cases, the public is urged to comply with the laws and regulations governing the use of the naira.

Cubana Chief Priest’s court appearance is expected to draw significant attention, as it represents a high-profile case in the ongoing effort to curb the abuse of the naira at social events.

The outcome of the arraignment will serve as a reminder of the consequences of violating the Central Bank Act and may influence the behavior of other public figures and the general public in their handling of the national currency.