Tension gripped the entrance of the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos, on Sunday night, April 27, 2025, as Cubana Chief Priest, one of Nigeria’s biggest nightlife moguls and social media sensations, was bounced from the 17th Headies Awards for not presenting an official invitation card. Eyewitnesses captured the dramatic scene that quickly went viral, showing the celebrity entrepreneur visibly frustrated as he pleaded with security.
The confrontation, caught on video by RommiRoyal TV and now trending heavily on TikTok, showcased Cubana Chief Priest in an intense back-and-forth with event security, determined to gain entry despite not being on the official guest list. Organizers of the Headies maintained a strict protocol this year, reportedly due to tighter security measures and VIP section controls.
Despite his towering popularity and close ties with top music stars like Davido, the socialite was not granted special privileges, igniting a social media firestorm. Many fans expressed shock that a figure of his influence could be turned away, while others praised the event handlers for maintaining standards without favoritism.
This year’s Headies, themed “The Revolution Continues,” witnessed an impressive turnout with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Tanzanian star Juma Jux, award-winning actress Nancy Isime, and Bamike “BamBam” Olawunmi-Adenibuyan among the high-profile guests. The ceremony celebrated major wins from artists like Odumodublvck, Tems, Rema, Davido, and a posthumous honor for the late Mohbad.
Commentators across X (formerly Twitter) and Threads have weighed in heavily, debating whether the snub was justified or a massive oversight by the organizers. Some speculated that the socialite’s absence from the invite list hints at deeper industry politics, while others urged celebrities to adhere to formal protocols regardless of their fame.
Sources close to the event reveal that this year’s invite-only model was enforced after previous editions faced gate-crashing incidents, tarnishing the experience for legitimate guests. Analysts predict that the viral moment involving Cubana Chief Priest may prompt Headies organizers to consider more publicized VIP protocols in future editions.
Meanwhile, Cubana Chief Priest, real name Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, has remained silent on the incident as debates rage online. Whether he addresses the controversy or lets it pass remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the 17th Headies Awards will be remembered not just for its winners, but for its no-nonsense enforcement of prestige.
