Cubana Chief Priest Explains Withdrawal From APC Primary Contest

Celebrity businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, says he did not participate in the All Progressives Congress primary election for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State, insisting he withdrew before voting took place.

In a series of posts shared on his Instagram account on Sunday, Okechukwu said his decision to step down followed consultations with Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who reportedly explained the party’s zoning arrangement to him.

He stated that the arrangement required Orlu Local Government Area to complete its existing political tenure before the seat could rotate to another area.

According to him, “He made the argument that it was not the turn of my Local Government Area to occupy the seat at this time, especially considering that my elder brother, Asiwaju Jerry Alagboso, had previously served three terms in the House.”

Okechukwu, who had earlier expressed regret over his loss in a viral video, said his latest clarification was necessary to correct what he described as misinformation about his involvement in the exercise.

He said his ambition was driven by concerns about representation in the constituency, adding that he initially joined the race in good faith.

“My decision and resolve to aspire for the office was born out of my conviction that the current holder of the office was not living up to the expectations and aspirations of our people,” he said.

However, he explained that once the party formally reaffirmed its zoning arrangement, he stepped aside completely.

“In respect for the party and its leadership, I chose not to proceed to the field, and indeed, I never did. Nobody will say they saw me anywhere around the primaries venue. In fact I did not participate. As I headed straight back to Lagos,” he added.

He further said the decision was communicated to him before the primary election and that he respected the party’s internal process by staying away.

“Immediately the party’s decision was communicated to me in the early hours of Saturday before the primaries, I stayed away completely in respect of the leadership and the internal understanding reached,” he stated.

Okechukwu also dismissed reports suggesting financial disputes with supporters linked to the failed bid, describing such claims as false and misleading.

“I am not indebted to anybody over my aspiration. The aspiration was entirely mine, driven by my personal conviction and desire to serve,” he said, adding that he had “absolutely no regret whatsoever” about participating in the political process.

He reaffirmed his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying he remains committed to the party and its leadership, and will continue mobilising support ahead of the 2027 general elections through his City Boy Movement.

“The APC remains my party, today and always. I remain loyal and committed to the ideals and leadership of our great party,” he said.

The report was first published by punch