Cubana Chiefpriest Reacts to Traditional Ruler's Demand for Kanu's Release
Socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chiefpriest, has publicly responded to a viral video featuring a traditional ruler from the southeast region of Nigeria. The ruler, Lawrence Agubuzu of the Ezema Olo Community in Enugu state, made a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu during the 2026 National Traditional and Religious Leaders Summit on Health, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. Agubuzu urged the president to release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), or deport him to Kenya or London, emphasizing that this action is crucial for achieving peace in the southeast.
Chiefpriest's Support for the Traditional Ruler's Stance
In a post on his Instagram page, Cubana Chiefpriest reshared the video and praised Agubuzu for his bold participation in the summit. He highlighted the importance of such engagements, noting that without the video recording, the traditional ruler might have been unfairly criticized. Chiefpriest expressed confidence that President Tinubu would heed the call to release Kanu, stating, "His last words Mr. President we will do all we can but please hear our cry... God bless you your royal highness for partaking in Nigeria, if your highness did not participate in Abuja how Asiwaju wan take hear this message." This reaction underscores the socialite's alignment with the ruler's plea for justice and regional stability.
Reasons Igbos Should Support Tinubu's Re-election
Cubana Chiefpriest further elaborated on why the Igbo community should rally behind President Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections. He argued that alignment with the federal government is essential, as opposition is futile. "Alignment is key, we no fit fight government, Asiwaju go free mnk, his royal highness don put am for baba body. Let’s get along with Nigeria," he said. Chiefpriest pointed out that Tinubu secured victory in the 2023 presidential election without significant support from the southeast, suggesting he is likely to win again. Therefore, he urged Igbos to provide their votes in exchange for political concessions, such as Kanu's release, to advance their interests.
Potential for Tinubu to Hand Over to an Igbo Successor
In addition to immediate demands, Cubana Chiefpriest discussed the long-term political strategy for the Igbo people. He speculated that President Tinubu might facilitate the transition of power to an Igbo candidate after his tenure, citing Tinubu's historical support for leaders from other ethnic groups. "Hopefully he will hand over power to an igbo man. He made Buhari president a Hausa man he made himself a Yoruba man president what makes you think he won’t make an Igbo man president if we clearly support him for one more term," Chiefpriest remarked. He emphasized that Tinubu possesses the strongest political structure in Nigeria, making him a viable ally for achieving Igbo aspirations, including potential presidential representation.
Broader Context and Political Implications
This development occurs amidst growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections. Cubana Chiefpriest has previously engaged with opposition groups, such as the Village Boy Movement, which supports Peter Obi. He has boasted about converting opposition followers through empowerment initiatives, reflecting his active role in shaping political discourse. The traditional ruler's call and Chiefpriest's endorsement highlight ongoing debates about regional representation, security, and ethnic politics in Nigeria. As discussions continue, these voices contribute to the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, where alliances and strategic voting are seen as pathways to achieving communal goals and national cohesion.
