Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, popularly known as “Cubana Chief Priest,” has purchased the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State. The move, announced on his Instagram account on Thursday, signals his intention to contest the seat in the upcoming general election.
In the Instagram post, Okechukwu captioned the photograph of the nomination form with a message to his followers and to the “City Boy Movement.” He wrote: “Stopped by to see my patron @cityboy.movement_hq, the Okanlomo of Yorubaland, @seyitinubu, with my nomination and expression of interest form for blessings. When I say City Boy Movement, you say empowering the youth. Chukwu Bu Ike M.” The post, which included the APC form, confirms that the businessman has formally entered the party’s primary process for the federal constituency.
The Orsu/Orlu/Oru East seat, located in the southeastern state of Imo, has been a competitive battleground in recent elections. The APC, Nigeria’s ruling party since 2015, is seeking to strengthen its presence in the region, where the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) traditionally enjoys strong support. Okechukwu’s candidacy adds a high‑profile name to the APC’s roster, potentially altering the dynamics of the primary contest.
Okechukwu, a well‑known figure in Nigeria’s entertainment and business circles, has previously leveraged his social media following to promote youth empowerment initiatives through the City Boy Movement. His entry into politics follows a growing trend of Nigerian celebrities and entrepreneurs transitioning to public office. Earlier reports by Media Talk Africa indicated that the entrepreneur had expressed interest in running for the House of Representatives under the APC ticket, but the recent purchase of the nomination form provides concrete evidence of his commitment.
The APC’s internal screening process for parliamentary candidates typically involves a verification of eligibility, payment of required fees, and participation in party primaries. Candidates who secure the party’s nomination will appear on the ballot for the February 2027 general election, when voters nationwide will elect members of the National Assembly.
Political analysts note that Okechukwu’s business background and youth‑focused branding could attract a segment of the electorate seeking change and development. However, his lack of prior elected experience may also pose challenges in a constituency accustomed to seasoned politicians.
The nomination form purchase marks the first formal step in Okechukwu’s campaign. As the APC prepares for its primaries, the party will determine whether the entrepreneur’s popularity can translate into votes. The outcome will shape the composition of the House of Representatives and influence the balance of power between the APC and opposition parties in Imo State.
