Reactions continue to pour in concerning the N10 million bail granted to socialite Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, after he entered a not guilty plea for alleged naira abuse.
According to reports from NewsNow, the socialite appeared before Justice Kehinde Ogundare at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday, facing a three-count charge related to the misuse of the Naira, as presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Upon pleading not guilty, the court allowed him bail set at N10m, requiring two sureties in the same amount who must hold gainful employment with either the federal or state government and maintain a rank no lower than grade level 16.
His release on bail has elicited a mix of opinions on various social media platforms.
Several individuals pointed out a discrepancy in treatment between Cubana Chief Priest and the contentious crossdresser, Bobrisky, who was denied bail for a similar offense prior to his trial.
They pondered over the differing outcomes for the two suspects facing the same “crime.”
Expressing his thoughts, @Olamide0fficial stated: “Bobrisky received a 6-month jail term, while Cubana Chief Priest was fined 10 million naira for a similar offense. Life is truly unfair.”
@LawrenceOkoroPG shared: “Cubana Chief Priest recently posted on his Instagram.
‘Now it’s confirmed Chief Priest isn’t just any ordinary”
Money is flowing.’
It appears this case was merely a pretext to detain Bob Risky for his involvement in homosexual activities.”
@47kasz remarked: “I’m beginning to suspect there’s more to Bobrisky’s imprisonment than just the defacement of the naira as, if Cubana chief priest can secure bail for the same offense, why was Bobrisky sentenced to 6 months.
“I’m not supporting Bob, but let’s be fair.”
@Abazz noted: “Bobrisky admitted guilt, leading to his arrest.
“Cubana Chief Priest denied guilt, resulting in his release.
“If you keep lying, not every truth will set you free.”
@AsiwajuLerry inquired: “Can someone clarify, in simple terms, why Cubana Chief Priest was granted bail but Bobrisky wasn’t.”
@Bummiearo clarified: “Some are unaware of the concept of bail. This isn’t a final verdict. The legal proceedings will continue, but Cubana will not be confined by the EFCC or spend nights in a cell during the trial.
“Bobrisky confessed his guilt, negating the need for further trial. The next step would have been to issue a sentence.”