Cubana Chief Priest Loses APC House of Reps Ticket in Imo

Cubana Chief Priest Loses APC House of Reps Ticket in Imo

Popular celebrity businessman and nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has failed in his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency of Imo State ahead of the next general election.

Cubana Chief Priest, who currently serves as the Imo State Coordinator of the pro-Tinubu City Boys Movement, had formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives under the APC platform earlier this year.

His political ambition generated widespread reactions across social media and political circles, with many describing it as a major transition from entertainment and nightlife business into mainstream politics.

The celebrity businessman had campaigned on promises of youth inclusion, empowerment and what he described as “clean politics,” while also encouraging greater participation of young Nigerians in governance.

However, despite his popularity and strong social media influence, the outcome of the APC primary election did not favour him, as another aspirant reportedly emerged with the party’s ticket for the federal constituency.

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Although official detailed results of the primary have yet to be fully released publicly, sources within the APC in Imo State confirmed that Cubana Chief Priest did not secure enough support from delegates to clinch the ticket.

The development has since triggered mixed reactions online, with critics mocking the socialite’s defeat while supporters argued that political success requires more than celebrity status and online popularity.

Many political observers noted that the outcome reflects the realities of Nigeria’s grassroots political structure, where local alliances, party loyalty, delegate influence and long-term political networks often play more significant roles than fame.

Cubana Chief Priest had announced his political ambition in February through social media posts and public engagements, declaring his readiness to represent the people of Orsu, Orlu and Oru East Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

At the time, he positioned himself as part of a new generation of politically active youths willing to contribute to national development beyond entertainment and business.

His association with the APC and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 election campaign also increased his visibility within the ruling party.

The celebrity socialite was among several entertainers and influencers who publicly backed Tinubu’s presidential ambition through campaigns, rallies and social media mobilisation.

Despite the setback, political analysts believe Cubana Chief Priest may still remain active within the APC and youth mobilisation structures, especially given his strong influence among young Nigerians and his close ties with political figures in Imo State and beyond.

The businessman has yet to officially react in detail to the outcome of the APC primary election.

Cubana Chief Priest rose to prominence through Nigeria’s hospitality and entertainment industry, becoming one of the country’s most recognised nightlife personalities and celebrity influencers.

Over the years, he has built a massive following on Instagram and maintained close relationships with top Nigerian entertainers, politicians and business figures.

His failed House of Representatives bid has now added to growing discussions about the increasing intersection between celebrity culture, youth influence and politics in Nigeria.

Cubana Chief Priest Loses APC House of Reps Ticket in Imo