Celebrity businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the continued detention of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu could severely damage his political chances in the South-East ahead of the 2027 elections.
His warning comes amid renewed tension in the region following Kanu’s latest court appearance, where his legal team again demanded his release and accused the Federal Government of dragging the case unnecessarily.
In a strongly worded Instagram post, Cubana Chief Priest said Tinubu’s government risks alienating the entire region if Kanu remains behind bars.
According to him, “As long as MNK remains in jail, you cannot and will never get up to ten thousand votes in the South-East come 2027. I won’t lie to you. As a friend of your government, I have no reason to sugarcoat anything.”
He described Kanu as a major unifying figure in the region whose prolonged incarceration has deepened resentment and hindered political engagement. He also criticised South-East ministers and political appointees, accusing them of lacking the courage and influence to communicate the truth to the President.
“None of them has the capacity to make the people love or respect you. The governors will also disappoint you. Only MNK’s release can save you,” he said.
Cubana Chief Priest further advised Tinubu not to rely on political officeholders for support, saying their influence on voters is limited. He insisted that Kanu’s freedom remains the strongest path to winning back the region.
He also urged the President to work with Abia State governor Alex Otti, whom he praised as a credible leader with genuine grassroots acceptance. He faulted Tinubu’s decision to decline Otti’s invitation to commission projects in Abia, calling the move a missed opportunity.
Cubana Chief Priest’s comments add to growing political reactions after Kanu’s court appearance, with analysts saying the case will continue to shape political discussions ahead of 2027.
