Popular Nigerian socialite and businessman, Cubana Chief Priest, has claimed that President Bola Tinubu does not completely trust him because of his Igbo background and his past support for former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, made the remark during a chat with content creator Peller on Tuesday evening while reflecting on his recent political setback and relationship with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The nightlife promoter had recently obtained the APC House of Representatives nomination form to contest for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State but failed to secure the party’s ticket.
Following the outcome of the primary election, the socialite later told his followers that he never actually contested, despite widespread reports surrounding his political ambition.
Speaking during the interview, Cubana Chief Priest suggested that his previous association with Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election may still be affecting how he is perceived within the ruling political circle.
“Let me tell you, as I am now, Tinubu doesn’t really trust me as an Igbo man. He looks at me with one eye. He is still like, ‘this one that has worked for Peter Obi before,’” he said.
The socialite explained that although he worked for Peter Obi during the 2023 elections, he eventually decided to align himself with President Tinubu and the APC because he believes Obi stands little chance of defeating Tinubu in the 2027 presidential race.
Cubana Chief Priest currently serves as the Imo State Coordinator of the City Boys Movement, a political support group associated with President Tinubu.
His failed bid for the APC ticket triggered mixed reactions on social media, with several users mocking his defeat and suggesting that he underestimated the realities of Nigerian politics.
Amid the backlash, the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu, publicly encouraged him in an Instagram message later reposted by the socialite.
Seyi Tinubu urged him not to be discouraged by the outcome of the primary, noting that political setbacks could eventually pave the way for future success.
