The defeat of celebrity businessman Cubana Chief Priest in the APC House of Representatives primary election in Imo State has drawn reactions online, including a public message from Seyi Tinubu.
Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, contested for the All Progressives Congress ticket for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections but lost to the incumbent lawmaker, Canice Nwachukwu.
The nightlife promoter secured 14 votes in the primary election, falling short against Nwachukwu, who retained the party’s ticket.
Shortly after the result emerged, Seyi Tinubu shared a message on Instagram encouraging Cubana Chief Priest not to be discouraged by the outcome. The post, later reposted by the businessman, urged him to see the setback as part of a bigger journey toward future success.
The election result has since generated widespread debate across social media, especially given Cubana Chief Priest’s popularity in entertainment and nightlife circles. Many users questioned whether his celebrity influence could successfully translate into grassroots political support.
In a video circulating online after the primary, Cubana Chief Priest said he had no regrets about entering the race despite the defeat. However, he openly expressed disappointment over the number of votes he received and appeared to question the role played by party stakeholders during the process.
The businessman had attracted attention in recent months over his growing interest in politics and increasing public association with key APC figures, including Seyi Tinubu. His ambition to represent the federal constituency was seen by supporters as an attempt to transition from entertainment and business into elective office.
Still, the primary outcome has highlighted the complex nature of local party politics, where influence on social media does not always guarantee electoral success within party structures.
Reactions remain mixed online, with some supporters praising him for attempting to enter public service, while critics argue that political popularity requires more than celebrity status and internet visibility.
