Cubana Chief Priest Says EFCC Cell Is Like a 5-Star Hotel—Minus the Freedom

Nigerian celebrity barman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, offered some rather unconventional advice to those who have received invitations from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Following his recent release from EFCC custody after posting a N10 million bail for his naira abuse case, Cubana Chief Priest took to Instagram to express his support for the agency’s efforts—and his gratitude for the free meals and accommodation.

The socialite appeared before Justice Kehinde Ogundare at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday, pleading not guilty to three counts of naira abuse brought against him by the anti-graft agency. Celebrities such as Portable have since apologized for past naira abuse following his arrest and trial, perhaps because the EFCC’s all-inclusive jail packages are known to be a hot topic among Nigeria’s glitterati.

On Thursday, former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello was declared wanted by the EFCC for evading arrest and missing a court hearing in connection with N80 billion charges. In an Instagram post, Cubana Chief Priest praised the EFCC’s operations, encouraging individuals to comply with the agency’s invitations. He likened the EFCC’s pursuit of suspects to a cheetah chasing down its prey—swift and determined.

Cubana Chief Priest stressed that the EFCC “doesn’t bite or beat,” but instead investigates and prosecutes with a professional touch. He highlighted the luxurious conditions of EFCC detention, including the provision of a comfortable bed, toilet, bathroom, and complimentary meals. “They even serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner—so really, why are you running?” he quipped.

He added that the EFCC’s eagle emblem symbolizes its ability to soar high and capture suspects wherever they may be hiding. “The Eagle will always find you quicker than your Uber Eats driver with your late-night snack,” he joked.

Cubana Chief Priest has previously faced arrest by the EFCC, notably in April 2022, when he was detained at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja for alleged money laundering and tax fraud. Following his release in 2022, he has continued to advocate for cooperation with the EFCC and the importance of adhering to the law—or at least not making a run for it, given the perks of their “hotel-like” accommodations.