Cubana Chief Priest, a prominent Nigerian socialite and businessman, has reversed his political stance, stating that his decision not to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 general election was a mistake. He now advocates for a strategy of partnership with the federal government.
Speaking at a political event in Imo State, Chief Priest explained that the gathering, which he said followed weeks of planning, symbolised increasing unity behind the current administration. He asserted that years of political opposition had yielded no tangible results, necessitating a change in approach.
“We have decided to partner with the government at the center. We are not ready to fight. We tried fighting and it didn’t work for us,” he stated.
He praised Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State for his close collaboration with the federal government, linking that cooperation to developmental projects within the state. Chief Priest also commended Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, describing him as a unifying figure building bridges across Nigeria’s ethnic and regional divides.
Reflecting on the previous election cycle, he admitted his prior opposition to Tinubu was a political miscalculation. “Politics is a game…we don’t want to lose again and we will never waste our votes again,” he added.
Chief Priest predicted that the growing support for President Tinubu could coalesce into one of the nation’s largest political movements, promising intensified mobilisation for future elections. He concluded by offering prayers for the President’s success and urged Nigerians to embrace unity and cooperation for national progress.
This public endorsement from a well-connected entrepreneur and influencer signals a potential shift in political alliances within the Southeast, a region with complex federal dynamics. His call for a unified strategy ahead of subsequent electoral contests underscores ongoing efforts to consolidate support for the Tinubu administration.
