Analyst Casts Doubt on Tinubu's 2027 Southeast Performance Amid City Boy Movement
In a recent exclusive interview, public affairs analyst Donald Okwuosa has raised significant concerns about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's electoral prospects in the Southeast region for the 2027 elections. Okwuosa specifically targeted the City Boy Movement, a group often associated with socialite Obi Cubana, labeling its members as social media showboys with limited political influence beyond online platforms.
Grassroots Politics Versus Social Media Influence
Okwuosa emphasized that effective politics hinges on grassroots engagement rather than mere social media presence or billionaire circles. He argued that the City Boys, while influential in digital spaces, lack the necessary connection to underprivileged communities. Politics deals more with the grassroots, not solely with social media influence or the circle of billionaires or influential people, he stated, questioning their ability to mobilize voters beyond casting their individual votes.
He further noted that the movement's composition excludes poor or less influential individuals, limiting its reach. They have no hold on the grassroots, Okwuosa added, suggesting that their impact in real-world political scenarios is minimal.
Tinubu's Southeast Challenges and Missed Opportunities
Okwuosa predicted that Tinubu will not improve his performance in the Southeast during the 2027 elections, citing a lack of substantial development plans and political appointments for the region. He pointed out that the Southeast has been clearly sidelined in terms of policies, with no properly mapped out initiatives to demonstrate strong governmental presence.
A critical issue highlighted by Okwuosa is Tinubu's neutrality regarding the trial and incarceration of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement. He described this as a missed opportunity, asserting that intervention could have bolstered Tinubu's support in the Southeast. His intervention would have made him a hero in the Southeast, but he chose to be neutral, Okwuosa remarked, contrasting it with federal government dealings in other regions.
Background on the City Boy Movement and Obi Cubana's Role
The City Boy Movement gained attention after Obi Cubana, a prominent businessman, hinted at a new appointment linked to 2027 elections. Cubana previously stated that his involvement aims to ensure the Igbo community is not left behind, revealing a private conversation with Seyi Tinubu, the President's son, as a key motivator. This has sparked discussions about the movement's strategic goals and its potential to sway Southeast voters.
Okwuosa's analysis underscores broader skepticism about whether social media-driven movements can translate into tangible political gains, especially in regions with deep-seated issues like perceived neglect and security concerns. As the 2027 elections approach, these factors are likely to shape political dynamics in Southeast Nigeria.
