From Nightlife King to Lawmaker: Cubana Chief Priest Formally Declares Interest in House of Reps Under APC

 

The Nigerian political landscape is witnessing a significant shift as high-profile entertainers and socialites increasingly transition from the world of glitz and glamour to the corridors of power. On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, popular socialite and nightlife entrepreneur Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, officially declared his interest in contesting for a seat in the Federal House of Representatives.

​The "Celebrity Barman," as he is fondly called, announced his political ambition under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move, which has been the subject of rumors for several months, signals a new chapter for the Imo-born billionaire, who has built a massive following through his business ventures and influential social media presence.

​The Big Announcement: Why APC?

​Cubana Chief Priest’s choice of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not entirely surprising to those who have followed his recent affiliations. Over the past few years, the socialite has been spotted at various high-level political gatherings, often in the company of top-ranking APC officials and governors.

​In his declaration speech, the businessman emphasized that his decision to join the ruling party was driven by a desire to bring "youthful energy and innovation" to the legislative process. He praised the party's "pro-business" stance and expressed confidence that his background in hospitality and entertainment would allow him to advocate for policies that empower young entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

​Representing the Youth: A Mission for Empowerment

​One of the core themes of Cubana Chief Priest’s declaration was the need for youth representation in governance. At a time when the Nigerian youth are increasingly vocal about their role in nation-building, the socialite believes that people like him, who have succeeded in the private sector, have a duty to serve.

​"I have spent my life building brands and creating jobs for young people in the nightlife and hospitality industry," he stated. "Now, it is time to take that experience to the House of Representatives. We need lawmakers who understand the struggles of the average Nigerian youth and can create laws that actually work for us."

​His campaign is expected to focus heavily on:

• ​Job Creation: Leveraging his business network to attract investments to his constituency.
• ​SME Support: Pushing for legislation that reduces the tax burden on small and medium-sized enterprises.
• ​Digital Economy: Advocating for better infrastructure to support the growing tech and creative sectors in Nigeria.

​Tactical Political Alignment: The Imo State Factor

​Cubana Chief Priest is seeking to represent his home constituency in Imo State. His entry into the race adds a layer of celebrity power to the already competitive political atmosphere in the Southeast. Political analysts suggest that his massive social media influence—boasting millions of followers on Instagram—could be a decisive factor in mobilizing the youth vote.

​However, the transition from "Celebrity Barman" to "Honorable Member" will not be without its challenges. The APC primaries are known for being highly competitive, and the socialite will have to navigate the complex internal dynamics of the party. To succeed, he will need to prove to the grassroots voters that his interest in politics is based on genuine service rather than just a status symbol.

​The Impact on the Nigerian Entertainment Industry

​The news of Cubana Chief Priest’s political bid has sparked a conversation within the entertainment industry. For years, entertainers were seen as "hired hands" for political campaigns, but recent trends show a shift toward them becoming the candidates themselves.

​His candidacy follows in the footsteps of other entertainment figures like Desmond Elliot, Banky W, and Yul Edochie, who have all made forays into the political sphere. If successful, Cubana Chief Priest would be one of the most prominent business-oriented socialites to hold federal office, potentially opening the door for more private-sector leaders from the hospitality industry to enter politics.

​Addressing the Skeptics: Can a Socialite Lead?

​As with any celebrity-turned-politician, there are skeptics who question whether the "glamorous lifestyle" of the Cubana Chief Priest is compatible with the rigors of lawmaking. Critics have pointed to his frequent social media displays of wealth as a potential point of contention for voters who are struggling with economic hardships.

​In response, supporters of the socialite argue that his wealth is a sign of his success and independence. They contend that because he is already financially secure, he is less likely to be influenced by the financial temptations that often plague public office. "He has managed multi-million naira businesses successfully; he can definitely manage a constituency," one supporter remarked on X (formerly Twitter).

​Building a Grassroots Foundation

​Aware of the "celebrity" tag, Cubana Chief Priest has already begun extensive grassroots consultations. Sources close to the businessman reveal that he has been meeting with traditional rulers, youth leaders, and women’s groups in his constituency to understand their local needs.

​This grassroots approach is crucial in Nigerian politics, where local endorsements often carry more weight than social media popularity. By combining his digital influence with physical presence in his community, the socialite is aiming to build a formidable campaign that appeals to both the young and the old.

​Conclusion: A New Wave of Political Participation

​Cubana Chief Priest’s declaration for the House of Representatives under the APC is a landmark event in the 2026 political calendar. It represents the ongoing merger of pop culture and politics in Nigeria, as the youth demographic seeks leaders they can relate to.

​Whether he secures the APC ticket and eventually wins the general election remains to be seen. However, his courage to step into the political arena is a testament to the changing mindset of Nigeria's influential elites. As the 2027 elections approach, all eyes will be on the "Celebrity Barman" to see if he can successfully trade his bar counter for a seat in the National Assembly.