Nigerian Entertainment Stars Align with President Tinubu Ahead of 2027 Elections
As Nigeria's political landscape intensifies in preparation for the 2027 general elections, several high-profile celebrities and socialites have publicly declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second-term bid. These figures from the entertainment and business sectors are taking strategic roles in support groups backing the president's re-election campaign, sparking widespread discussion and mixed reactions across social media platforms.
Strategic Appointments in Pro-Tinubu Movements
The City Boy Movement and Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN) have emerged as key advocacy groups attracting celebrity endorsements. Notably, the majority of state governors already belong to President Tinubu's All Progressives Congress (APC), creating a political environment where celebrity involvement adds significant visibility to the campaign efforts.
Obi Cubana Takes Leadership Role
Renowned businessman and socialite Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has been appointed as the South-East Coordinator of the City Boy Movement. The appointment certificate was presented by President Tinubu's son, Seyi Tinubu, during a visit to Iyiegbu's residence. The Anambra-born entrepreneur shared details of their meeting on Instagram, describing "meaningful conversations about everything" including national issues. Iyiegbu defended his decision to accept the political role, emphasizing that meaningful change requires active participation and engagement rather than passive observation.
Cubana Chief Priest Assumes Imo State Directorship
Shortly after Obi Cubana's appointment, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, was named the Imo State Director of the City Boy Movement. The organization described him as a key figure in advancing Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda, bringing "experience, influence, and a people-centred approach to mobilising support." The nightlife entrepreneur's political involvement has generated controversy online, particularly given his previous vocal support for activist Nnamdi Kanu. In response to critics, Chief Priest questioned tribal loyalties in Nigerian politics, emphasizing that national interest should take precedence over ethnic considerations.
Nollywood Stars Join the Campaign
Several prominent actors have accepted positions within Tinubu's support structure. Bolanle Ninalowo announced his appointment as Coordinator of Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN) in Atlanta, United States, sharing campaign materials bearing APC and RTIFN logos on social media. Veteran actor Zack Orji received congratulations on his appointment as Deputy Director-General, Strategy, Communication and Policy for RTIFN, with the organization describing him as a respected figure and passionate advocate for good governance.
Additional Celebrity Appointments
Content creator Emmanuel Philip, known as Naijashimadun, transitioned from online entertainment to political coordination as the Houston, USA Coordinator for RTIFN. Comedian Seyi Law announced his role as Ondo State Coordinator for RTIFN, expressing confidence in delivering the state for Tinubu in 2027. Actor and filmmaker Yul Edochie celebrated his appointment as Deputy South-East Coordinator of RTIFN, declaring "2027 is for Tinubu or nothing" on his Instagram platform.
Political Realignment and Public Reactions
The celebrity endorsements have generated intense political conversations online, with netizens expressing diverse opinions about entertainment figures entering the political arena. Cubana Chief Priest notably declared he would work against former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2027 election, despite having supported Obi during the previous election cycle. This shift highlights the dynamic nature of political alliances as election campaigns gain momentum.
The involvement of these celebrities represents a strategic approach to mobilizing support across different demographics and geographical locations, both within Nigeria and among the diaspora community. As the countdown to the 2027 presidential election continues, these high-profile endorsements are expected to play a significant role in shaping public discourse and campaign strategies.
