Popular nightlife entrepreneur and social figure Paschal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has formally declared his intention to venture into Nigerian politics, announcing plans to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives.
In a move that has drawn significant public attention, the celebrity businessman revealed that he would be seeking to represent the Orsu, Orlu, and Oru East Federal Constituency of Imo State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Okechukwu, who has consistently identified as a supporter of President Bola Tinubu and an ally of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, said his decision to enter politics was driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the development and welfare of his constituency.
In a viral video circulating on social media platform X, the entrepreneur outlined his intentions, stressing that his approach to public service would differ from the norm. According to him, his ambition is rooted in service and personal investment rather than financial gain.
“I am not coming to steal money. I am planning to add mine to the constituency account and build more projects for my people,” he said in the video, which has since generated widespread reactions online.
Observers note that his entry into politics reflects a growing trend of Nigerian entertainers and business figures seeking elective office, often leveraging their popularity and grassroots connections to mobilise support.
Okechukwu’s political declaration also comes with broader commentary on the state of governance and development in Nigeria’s Southeast region. He reiterated earlier remarks suggesting that the region must adopt a more strategic approach to political participation in order to achieve meaningful progress.
According to him, engagement from within the political system offers a more effective pathway to influence policy and attract development, rather than sustained opposition from outside the corridors of power.
Reaffirming his support for President Bola Tinubu, the businessman expressed confidence in the president’s chances of securing re-election in 2027. His endorsement aligns with his long-standing affiliation with the APC and his public backing of the current administration.
At the same time, Okechukwu made a notable appeal to the federal government regarding the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He urged President Tinubu to consider granting Kanu unconditional release, describing him as a significant figure in the Southeast.
“I will not lie to you, Papa; as a friend of your government, I have no reason to whitewash you. MNK is the supreme leader of the South-East,” he said, while also reflecting on the region’s prolonged agitation and its limited outcomes.
He argued that years of protests, sit-at-home directives, and confrontational approaches have not yielded the desired results, suggesting that a shift toward political inclusion and active participation in governance may offer better prospects for the region.
“We don’t fight, protest, scream, yell, even kill ourselves, and nothing changed… The only option is for us to serve and get settled,” he added.
His remarks have sparked mixed reactions, particularly among political observers and stakeholders in the Southeast, where debates over strategy, representation, and engagement with federal authorities remain highly sensitive.
Okechukwu also encouraged greater alignment with what he described as the “City Boy Movement,” a term associated with support for President Tinubu’s political base. He suggested that being part of the system could provide opportunities for influence and development that are otherwise difficult to achieve from the outside.
“If you can’t beat them, you join them… it’s better to be inside than outside,” he said, underscoring his belief in political integration as a pathway to progress.
While his declaration has generated enthusiasm among some supporters, others have questioned his political experience and readiness for legislative responsibilities. Analysts note that transitioning from business and entertainment into governance requires not only popularity but also policy understanding, legislative competence, and sustained engagement with constituents.
As of now, Okechukwu has not formally completed all procedural steps required for candidacy, but his announcement signals the beginning of what could become a closely watched political journey in Imo State.
With the 2027 general elections still some distance away, political activities and alignments are expected to intensify in the coming months, particularly within the APC and other parties in the Southeast.
For Cubana Chief Priest, the coming period will likely test his ability to translate public visibility into political structure, grassroots support, and electoral viability as he seeks to move from celebrity status into public office.
