Celebrity businessman and nightlife promoter Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has lost the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the House of Representatives seat in Imo State.
The primary, held on May 16, 2026, saw the socialite contest for the Orlu/Orsu/Oru East Federal Constituency ticket but he was defeated by the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Canice Moore Nwachukwu.
Incumbent Lawmaker Wins APC Ticket
Hon. Nwachukwu, who currently represents the constituency, reportedly secured the party’s ticket amid strong grassroots backing and established political structure in the area.
Party sources said the exercise reflected a contest between political experience and popularity, with the incumbent maintaining dominance within the constituency’s delegate base.
Cubana’s Political Entry Faces First Major Setback
Cubana Chief Priest had officially joined the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring interest in the House of Representatives seat.
He had earlier purchased his nomination forms and publicly declared consultations with key political figures, including visits to political stakeholders linked to the ruling party.
His entry into politics had generated attention due to his popularity in entertainment and nightlife circles, as well as his connections within national political networks.
Reactions Trail Primary Outcome
Following the result, reactions have continued on social media, with users describing the outcome as a reality check on celebrity participation in Nigerian electoral politics.
Some users mocked the defeat with references to his popular slogan, while others argued that constituency politics remains heavily influenced by established structures rather than public visibility or online influence.
Political Reality Check For Celebrity Aspirant
Observers note that the outcome reflects a recurring pattern in Nigerian politics, where incumbency advantage and local party structures often outweigh celebrity status and national popularity.
As of the time of filing this report, Cubana Chief Priest has not issued an official statement on the outcome of the primary.
