The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday arraigned businessman Pascal Okechukwu, aka Cuban Chief Priest, before a Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged abuse of the Naira currency.
He was arraigned on three counts of spraying and tampering with the Naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos.
When the case was called on Wednesday, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the prosecution, while Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, announced his appearance for the defendant.
The defense counsel then first informed the court of a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction as well as bail application files on behalf of the defendant.
He informed the court that the prosecution was not opposed to same.
After the charge was read to the defendant, he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
In moving the bail application of the defendant, counsel urged the court to grant him bail on liberal terms .
He told the court that the defendant was admitted by the prosecution following his health condition, adding that due to his weight, the defendant suffers from palpitations.
Besides, he told the court that the offence with which the defendant is charged is a misdemeanor and that the prescribed punishment ranges from a fine of N50,000 to an imprisonment term of six months.
He urged the court to grant bail on very liberal terms to the defendant, as he is a first-time offender with no past criminal records .
Counsel also informed the court that the defendant is an employer of labour with over 1000 employees on his payroll who are dependent on their jobs.
He, consequently, urged the court to grant his application as moved
In response, the prosecutor said she will leave the issue of bail to the discretion of the court.
The court has yet to deliver ruling on bail. (NAN)
