Popular Nigerian socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has responded to the withdrawal of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary. The development has ignited widespread discussion across social media platforms.
Fubara Steps Down From Governorship Race
Governor Fubara announced his decision to withdraw from the contest, stating that the move followed extensive consultations with his family, close friends, and political associates. He acknowledged that stepping down was a difficult choice but emphasized his commitment to supporting the eventual candidate chosen by the party.
The announcement comes amid the long-running political rivalry between Fubara and his former political godfather, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The tension between the two leaders has been a recurring theme in Rivers State politics since 2023.
Cubana Chief Priest Celebrates Withdrawal
Reacting to the news, Cubana Chief Priest took to his Instagram story to express his excitement. He suggested that the withdrawal favored his preferred side in the ongoing political dispute between Fubara and Wike. The celebrity barman wrote: “Woke won. Agreement is Agreement.”
This reaction comes shortly after Cubana Chief Priest lost his bid for the House of Representatives ticket in the Imo APC primaries. His comment has been interpreted as a sign of support for Wike in the protracted political struggle.
Background of the Wike-Fubara Feud
The conflict between Fubara and Wike escalated after the 2023 elections, with Wike’s loyalists in the Rivers State House of Assembly threatening impeachment. Several peace deals brokered by President Bola Tinubu failed to resolve the rift. Although Fubara recently defected to the APC, his sudden withdrawal from the primary is viewed by many as a victory for Wike.
Mixed Reactions From Nigerians
Social media users flooded platforms with diverse opinions on the political drama. Some expressed disappointment, while others saw it as a strategic move. User @adelakuntufayl commented: “I'll rather not go into a poll than get a 14 out of thousands in it!” Another user, @vibesovo_ovo, wrote: “Tell them say our eyes done clear fubara, I feel like cry for you.”
Others criticized Cubana Chief Priest for his reaction. @chidera_idiagbo noted: “Portable kept explaining after he lost to Carter, so why are Nigerians worried about this he is doing?” @the_middle_child_001 added: “As he no win, he go dey look for those wey no win to join, nobody to console himself.”
@bco_hiimself remarked: “Since primaries you no gree rest.”
Cubana Chief Priest on President Tinubu
In a related development, Cubana Chief Priest previously claimed that President Bola Tinubu does not fully trust him due to his Igbo background and past political affiliations. During a chat with streamer Peller, the nightlife promoter revealed that his earlier support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2023 election made Tinubu cautious about him.
Cubana Chief Priest recalled how he once obtained the APC House of Representatives nomination form for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State before losing the bid. He later openly supported Tinubu through the City Boys Movement.
