Nigerian socialite and businessman Cubana Chief Priest, known offstage as Pascal Okechukwu, found himself in legal turmoil as he faced charges of banknote abuse.
During his recent court appearance, Chief Priest pleaded not guilty to three counts of the alleged offence, which authorities claim occurred during various social events where he threw money into the air.
The act, commonly referred to as “spraying,” is a customary practice at Nigerian celebrations like weddings.
However, it has garnered legal attention due to concerns about the mishandling of banknotes, which can be trampled upon when they fall to the ground.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s premier anti-crime agency, has intensified efforts to curb what they term “all forms of naira abuse.”
This crackdown has already seen repercussions for other public figures like internet personality Bobrisky, who recently received a prison sentence for a similar offence.
Chief Priest’s case adds to a growing list of high-profile individuals facing legal consequences for banknote-related misconduct.
Despite the charges, Chief Priest maintains his innocence, setting the stage for a legal battle over the controversial tradition of “spraying” money at festive gatherings.