Nigerian nightlife entrepreneur and socialite, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chiefpriest, has officially stepped into the political arena. In a recent video circulating online, the celebrity barman declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Orsu, Orlu, and Oru East Federal Constituency under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Cubana Chiefpriest emphasized that his political ambition is not driven by financial gain but by a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of his constituents. “I am not coming to steal money, I want to add mine to the constituency,” he stated firmly. This announcement comes just weeks after he enthusiastically joined the Tinubu’s City Boys Movement, a group of supporters aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The flamboyant businessman, known for his influence in Nigeria’s entertainment and hospitality sectors, is now part of a growing trend of celebrities and business figures venturing into politics. His move has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing mixed feelings about his entry into the political scene.
Chiefpriest's Political Alignment and Previous Comments
In previous statements, Cubana Chiefpriest defended Governor Alex Otti of Abia State against criticism over his refusal to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. He alleged that the federal government has been providing financial support to Abia State to help Governor Otti succeed in his developmental projects.
“All of us dey support Asiwaju. If na lie, make him follow Peter Obi go ADC. All the things wey Alex Otti dey do for Abia na Asiwaju dey supply am with the funds,” Chiefpriest said. He described Otti as an “amazing governor” whose actions reflect the presidency’s support and guidance. He urged Nigerians to recognize the President’s role in empowering governors who are delivering results in their states.
Chiefpriest also noted that while many Nigerians appear to oppose Tinubu publicly, they are, in fact, benefiting from federal allocations to their states. He called on citizens to hold their governors accountable rather than blaming the President for local governance issues. “Alex Otti is an example that Tinubu isn’t your problem, but your governors, because the same allocation given to him is also given to all the states’ governors. Y’all should hold your governors accountable; maybe then the country will be better for all,” he added. He cited his own state of Imo as a point of comparison, praising how allocations from the presidency are being utilized effectively under his governor’s leadership.
Netizens React to Chiefpriest's Declaration
The announcement drew a flurry of reactions on social media. User hrh_debola questioned: “Does he plan to relocate to his constituency or serve remotely from Lagos or Abuja? Has the DNA test been done yet?” Another user, chinonso091, commented: “Too early for this nonsense.” sir_stonebank remarked: “Omo with the kind of people wen they enter politics now omo hope no dy for this country again.” philip_tech_solar1 said: “Na waiting Tinubu and his wife talk No be today we done dey hear am.” uju_mani stated: “Some things should not even make headlines.” official_dekingsne advised: “He must not be there to use his money, you can start by building a hospital in ur village.” lucy_dietert wrote: “If you really want to add your money to the community, then don't join politics, you fit dey do giveaway for the community steady. Fuuuuullishhh man.” sammy_techp added: “President and his people told us same. This language don cast.”
Chiefpriest's Community Development Efforts
In related news, Legit.ng earlier reported that Cubana Chiefpriest shared videos of a road he constructed in his hometown. He mentioned that he has only one house on that street but decided to give back to the community. The businessman challenged his fans to reflect on what they have done in their own hometowns while offering them advice on giving back.
