Cubana Chief Priest in Legal Trouble: Charged for Throwing Money in Public
Nigerian socialite and entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, finds himself entangled in legal woes as he faces accusations of banknote abuse. During a recent court appearance, Okechukwu pleaded not guilty to three counts of mistreating banknotes. He purportedly engaged in this practice by tossing money into the air at various social gatherings.
The act of “spraying” money, a customary gesture of appreciation at Nigerian weddings and festivities, has come under scrutiny due to its repercussions. As banknotes flutter, they risk being trampled upon, constituting a technical offense. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s premier anti-crime agency, has intensified efforts to combat such instances of “naira abuse.”
Okechukwu stands accused of tampering with 500 naira notes during events held in Lagos earlier this year. Following his arraignment at Lagos’ Federal High Court, he was granted bail of 10 million naira ($8,600; £6,970). Despite the legal proceedings, Okechukwu, who owns a popular nightclub in Nigeria’s Delta State, expressed gratitude to his followers on Instagram, signifying his resilience amidst the scrutiny.
The crackdown on banknote abuse is not isolated, as evidenced by recent legal actions against notable personalities. Just weeks ago, internet sensation Bobrisky faced a six-month prison sentence for similar infractions. The judiciary has decried such acts, emphasizing their detrimental impact on the country’s image.
Actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin also faced repercussions, receiving a six-month prison term for her involvement in banknote abuse. The EFCC’s ongoing investigation into celebrities implicated in such practices underscores the gravity of the issue. With over 200 individuals under scrutiny and 24 already convicted, the crackdown signals a concerted effort to uphold the sanctity of Nigeria’s currency.
As the legal battle unfolds, the case of Cubana Chief Priest reminds us of the consequences associated with banknote abuse. While the tradition of spraying money remains deeply ingrained in Nigerian culture, its implications extend far beyond mere celebration, prompting a reevaluation of societal norms and legal responsibilities.
