In a significant development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and popular socialite Cubana Chief Priest have reached an out-of-court settlement, bringing a new twist to the legal battle between both parties.
During proceedings before Justice Kehinde Ogundare, counsel representing the defendant, Chikaosolu SAN, informed the court of their decision to resolve the matter outside of court. This decision comes in the spirit of reconciliation, with both parties opting to withdraw the initial objection notice to pave the way for further discussions aimed at reaching a settlement.
The defendant’s legal team underscored their commitment to pursuing an amicable resolution, highlighting their adherence to Section 14(2) of the EFCC Establishment Act, which allows for the consolidation of offenses in the interest of justice.
On behalf of the prosecution, Bilikisu Buhari confirmed receipt of the defense’s application and assured the court that it is currently under review. This acknowledgment signals a willingness on the part of the EFCC to engage constructively in the settlement process.
As part of the proposed settlement terms, the defendant’s counsel suggested June 5th as the date for submitting the settlement report, subject to court approval. Justice Kehinde Ogundare agreed to schedule a hearing for the settlement report on the proposed date, indicating the court’s readiness to facilitate the resolution process.
The decision to pursue an out-of-court settlement reflects a desire on both sides to avoid protracted litigation and explore avenues for resolving the dispute in a mutually beneficial manner. By opting for reconciliation, both the EFCC and Cubana Chief Priest demonstrate a commitment to finding common ground and moving forward cooperatively.
As the legal proceedings progress, stakeholders await further developments regarding the terms of the settlement and the eventual resolution of the matter. The outcome of the settlement discussions will undoubtedly have implications for the ongoing legal landscape and may set a precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances.
The agreement to pursue an out-of-court settlement represents a positive step toward resolving the dispute between the EFCC and Cubana Chief Priest, underscoring the potential for dialogue and compromise in addressing legal challenges.
