The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of a socialite, Pascal Okechukwu aka Cubana Chief Priest, on suspicion of money laundering and tax fraud.
He was arrested Thursday at the Murtala Mohammed Airport while on his way to Owerri, Imo State.
The anti-graft officials were however discreet over the development apparently to avoid pressure from his friends and family, who warned that the incident could complicate the condition for others suspected of being involved in the alleged racket.
Okechukwu’s detention has made it impossible for him to respond to birthday greetings from his over four million Instagram followers.
Reports say only his wife is allowed to see him in custody.
It was not immediately clear when he would be granted bail or the information officials had been able to squeeze from him as at the weekend.
“The matter is still under investigation,” a source said anonymously.
Cubana Chief Priest has gained nationwide acclaim as an ambassador for many national brands, including Bullet and LVMH.
His arrest came weeks after another socialite, Obi Cubana, was also interrogated by the anti-narcotics agency, NDLEA.