By Our Correspondent

National News – Celebrity businessman and social media influencer Cubana Chief Priest has denied taking part in the All Progressives Congress primary election for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, said he voluntarily withdrew from the APC race after discussions with Governor Hope Uzodimma over the party’s zoning arrangement.

The businessman made the clarification through a series of Instagram posts on Sunday, insisting he never appeared at the primary venue.

According to him, the APC leadership informed him before the election that the federal constituency seat should remain in Orlu Local Government Area for another term before rotating to another council area.

Okechukwu explained that his political ambition was motivated by concerns about the representation of the constituency and his desire to serve the people better.

However, after consultations with party leaders, he decided to respect the zoning agreement and step away from the contest.

He stated that nobody could claim to have seen him at the primary election venue because he immediately returned to Lagos after receiving the party’s decision.

He also dismissed reports circulating on social media that suggested he actively participated in the APC primary but lost heavily to the incumbent lawmaker, Canice Nwachukwu.

The nightlife entrepreneur further denied claims that he owed supporters or political associates money following the failed ambition.

He maintained that his aspiration was personal and funded independently, stressing that he had no regrets about raising political awareness in his constituency.

Reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, Cubana Chief Priest pledged continued support for President Bola Tinubu and the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections through his City Boy Movement initiative.