As Nigerian singer Davido celebrates his marriage to Chioma Rowland, his longtime lover, one of their close friends, Cubana Chief Priest, is embroiled in a scuffle with the EFCC.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the celebrity socialite have been engaged in a social media back-and-forth.

Cubana Chief Priest, namely Pascal Okechukwu, escaped conviction on naira abuse charges after settling with the EFCC.

The socialite took to social media to celebrate a “struck out” case, but the EFCC has clarified the situation. In a press release, the EFCC explained their actions fall under Section 14(2) of their Establishment Act, allowing them to accept a settlement exceeding the maximum penalty for the offense.

READ ALSO: Naira Abuse: Court hears case against Cubana Chief Priest, June 25

While Cubana avoided a criminal record, the settlement isn’t without consequences. He was fined N10 million, significantly higher than the N50,000 standard penalty. More notably, Cubana Chief Priest is now obligated to become an anti-naira abuse campaigner.

The EFCC detailed Cubana’s future duties:

• Bi-monthly posting of video messages on social media platforms promoting respect for the naira and denouncing financial crimes.
• Acting as a deterrent against future naira abuse.

Furthermore, this case is a reminder to Nigerians of the EFCC’s commitment to tackling naira abuse and their ongoing “Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarisation of the economy.”

Additionally, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale stated: “The court’s ruling on Cubana Chief Priest should stimulate enhanced commitment of Nigerians to defend the sanctity of the Naira and refrain from any infraction against the nation’s legal tender.”

Who is Cubana Chief Priest?

Cubana is a Nigerian businessman and socialite known for his flamboyant lifestyle. He’s known for owning nightclubs, being a friend to numerous celebrities, and his active social media presence.

Also, he is long time friends with Davido and they are business associates. They’ve been spotted together at events and on social media. Recently, videos that have surfaced online show an elated Cubana as Davido weds Chioma Rowland.

EFCC PRESS STATEMENT

Naira Abuse: Import of Court Judgment on Cubana Chief Priest

Consequent on the judgment of Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on the terms of settlement of the three-count charges bordering on abuse of Naira notes preferred… pic.twitter.com/qqhgGPysRA

— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) June 25, 2024