Cubana Chief Priest Criticizes Social Media Politicians, Claims Online Popularity Fails at Polls
Celebrity businessman Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has ignited a heated online debate with his recent statement that politicians who enjoy heavy support on social media rarely achieve victory in elections. The nightlife promoter, an active member of the City Boy Movement and a vocal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, made these remarks through his Instagram story, suggesting that online popularity does not translate to success at the ballot box.
Social Media Candidates Labeled as "Noise Makers" with Zero Capacity
In his post, Cubana Chief Priest argued that politicians who face intense criticism and abuse online are often the ones who emerge victorious in elections. He used Hon. Desmond Elliot as a prime example to illustrate his point, stating, "People wey una dey love for social media no dey ever win election na the ones wey dem dey abuse online na them dey always win. I use Hon. Desmond Elliot own know, once social media dey curse you out you don win be that. Social media candidates no deh ever win. Na noise una get Umu bingo with una free WiFi live sessions. only Cho Cho Cho zero capacity." This statement has been interpreted by many as a subtle jab at certain political figures, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2027 elections.
Netizens React with Mixed Opinions on Social Media's Role in Politics
The post quickly went viral, sparking diverse reactions from followers and netizens across Nigeria. Some users agreed with Cubana Chief Priest's assertion, commenting on the disconnect between social media hype and real-world electoral outcomes. For instance, @peterjohn430 responded, "Where is the lie ????? Opposition with no action get out ?? e be like say I go join the winning team… I don tire to wait for action ?" Others, however, questioned the fairness of Nigerian elections, with @chi_oma____ noting, "Y'all saying it's true, have you forgotten that election here in Nigeria is never free and fair?!" This debate highlights the ongoing tension between digital influence and traditional political dynamics in the country.
Cubana Chief Priest Reaffirms Support for President Tinubu's Re-election
This controversy follows Cubana Chief Priest's recent public declaration of full support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election campaign in 2027. He and other prominent Igbo businessmen have organized rallies across the Southeast, using branded buses from the City Boy Movement to mobilize supporters. A strategic night meeting brought together representatives from all five southeastern states, including Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, with notable attendees such as Obi Cubana, the CEO of Zenco, and the CEO of C-Energy. This move underscores his shift in political allegiance, as he previously backed Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election but has since withdrawn that support.
The ongoing discussions reflect broader conversations about the impact of social media on Nigerian politics, with Cubana Chief Priest's comments serving as a catalyst for examining how online sentiment aligns with electoral realities. As the 2027 elections approach, such debates are likely to intensify, shaping public opinion and political strategies in the digital age.
