The Nigerian entertainment-to-politics pipeline is heating up as celebrity barman and nightlife king, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, officially declared his intention to run for a seat in the House of Representatives in 2027.
Following a high-profile visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) state secretariat in Owerri, Imo State, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the socialite confirmed he is ready to transition from “Celebrity Barman” to “Honorable Member.”
The “Fighting from Within” Strategy
In a viral video shared across his social media platforms, Chief Priest outlined his motivations for joining the race:
- The Party Choice: He has formally aligned with the APC, citing his support for the current administration and his belief that the Southeast needs to engage with the “center” to secure development.
- Economic Development: Known for his vast wealth and business empire, he stated that he is not entering politics for financial gain. “I am not coming to steal money. I have made money. I am coming to build for my people,” he declared to party stakeholders.
- The Constituency: While the specific local government remains under strategic discussion, he is expected to contest for the Ideato North/South or an Owerri-based federal constituency in Imo State.
Youth Involvement & Celebrity Influence
His declaration has reignited the conversation about “Youth Takeover” in Nigerian politics:
- The “Celebrity” Factor: Chief Priest joins a growing list of entertainers like Banky W and Desmond Elliot who have moved into the legislative space. He urged Nigerian youths to stop complaining from the sidelines and instead join major parties to effect change from the inside.
- Regional Politics: He emphasized that the Southeast must play “smart politics” ahead of 2027, echoing his previous sentiments that being in the ruling party is the most effective way to address regional marginalization.
