Popular nightlife promoter and businessman, Cubana Chief Priest, has lost his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress ticket for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State.
The socialite and entrepreneur, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, had joined the race with the ambition of representing the constituency in the House of Representatives.
His participation in the contest marked a major step in his growing involvement in active politics, where he has repeatedly advocated greater youth participation and issue-driven leadership.
Cubana Chief Priest, who currently serves as the Imo State Coordinator of the City Boys Movement, had earlier announced his political ambition, presenting himself as part of a new generation of leaders seeking political reforms and wider civic participation.
Despite the momentum surrounding his campaign, he was unable to emerge as the APC candidate after the party’s primary election.
Following the outcome, reactions flooded social media, with many Nigerians sharing differing opinions over his defeat.
While some users mocked the businessman over the failed bid, others said the result highlights the intense nature of Nigerian politics and the difficulty many first-time aspirants face, regardless of their fame or financial influence.
Reacting to the development, Ossai Ovie Success, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Delta State, condemned the ridicule trailing the outcome of the primary.
He appealed to Nigerians to be more understanding, stressing that defeat in an election is part of the democratic process and should not be treated as a reason for mockery.
He also encouraged political aspirants not to be discouraged by setbacks, noting that losing an election does not signal the end of a political career.
Cubana Chief Priest now joins the list of public figures who recently ventured into politics but were unable to secure victory at the party primary stage.