Celebrity businessman and socialite Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has clarified that he did not participate in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State.
The nightlife entrepreneur made the clarification in a series of Instagram posts on Sunday, distancing himself from earlier reports suggesting he contested the primary and secured only 14 votes.
According to Okechukwu, he voluntarily stepped down from the race after discussions with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma regarding the APC’s zoning arrangement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He explained that the governor informed him that it was not yet the turn of his local government area to produce the federal lawmaker for the constituency, particularly because his elder brother, Asiwaju Jerry Alagboso, had previously represented the area for three terms in the House of Representatives.
Okechukwu said he accepted the party’s position out of loyalty and respect for the APC leadership.
“He made the argument that it was not the turn of my Local Government Area to occupy the seat at this time,” he wrote, adding that the governor insisted Orlu Local Government should complete at least two terms before power rotates.
The businessman disclosed that his interest in the seat was driven by dissatisfaction with the performance of the current representative, Canice Nwachukwu.
“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 stated.
He further revealed that once the party communicated its decision in the early hours of Saturday before the primary election, he immediately withdrew and returned to Lagos without appearing at the venue.
“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,” he said.
Okechukwu also dismissed social media reactions surrounding the exercise, describing them as coordinated attempts to use his name for political propaganda.
He denied allegations that he owed supporters money following the failed bid, insisting that the aspiration was entirely personal and self-funded.
Despite the setback, the socialite said he had no regrets about his political ambition, noting that it helped raise awareness and political consciousness within the constituency.
The controversy surrounding the primary had earlier attracted public attention after Seyi Tinubu reportedly encouraged him to see the experience as part of his political growth.
Reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party, Okechukwu pledged continued support for President Bola Tinubu and his re-election efforts through the 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 concluded.
