Celebrity businessman and socialite, Mr. Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has firmly clarified that he voluntarily withdrew from the race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State and did not participate in the primary election held on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
In a series of Instagram story posts on Sunday, May 17, 2026, Okechukwu addressed recent reports and social media commentary regarding the primary, stating that he stepped down in full respect for the party’s zoning arrangement after consultations with Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma.
“As a loyal party man and committed progressive, I consulted with the Governor, who explained the party’s position that Orlu LGA should complete at least two terms before the seat rotates. My elder brother, Asiwaju Jerry Alagboso, had previously served three terms, so it was not the turn of my local government area,” he stated.
Okechukwu emphasised that the party’s decision was communicated to him in the early hours of Saturday before the primary commenced. He honoured the internal arrangement by not proceeding to the field and returned straight to Lagos.
“Nobody will say they saw me anywhere around the primaries venue. In fact, I did not participate,” he asserted.
The businessman, who serves as the Imo State Coordinator of the City Boy Movement, noted that his initial aspiration was driven by a genuine desire to serve his people and address perceived shortcomings in the current representation. However, he chose party unity and discipline over personal ambition.
He dismissed as “laughable” and mischievous any attempts to use the episode for online propaganda, while firmly denying any financial indebtedness to supporters. “The aspiration was entirely mine, driven by my personal conviction and desire to serve. I have absolutely no regret whatsoever in raising the political stakes and consciousness in my constituency,” he added.
Cubana Chief Priest reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the All Progressives Congress and pledged continued mobilisation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 through the City Boy Movement.
He expressed gratitude to all those who supported his aspiration and called for unity within the party ahead of future elections.