Nigerian socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has knocked critics mocking him for kneeling before President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
A video capturing the moment he knelt to greet the nation’s top leaders during a meeting has gone viral, eliciting a mix of criticism and support from Nigerians across social media platforms.
In the footage, Cubana Chief Priest was seen kneeling before Vice President Shettima during a meeting where he expressed his unwavering support for the administration. He was heard saying, “We dey with you. We dey for you. We go fight for you. We go celebrate with you. Good man”.
The gesture, however, did not sit well with many Nigerians, who viewed it as an unnecessary display of subservience, especially given the country’s current economic challenges.
Responding to the backlash, Cubana Chief Priest took to his social media to address his critics.
He wrote, “All of a sudden !!!! Dem don love me so much That they are so hurt that CP knelt down for Presidency. Well, me I know say No be wetin dey really pain una Wetin dey pain una be say Why is it always CP. So funny how na me kneel down for Presidency but na una leg dey pain. Na so una abuse them till they became the presidency na so una go abuse me till I become wetin dey my mind to become. Una abuse na blessings in disguise. I understand this game now better, the ones you people show fake love, shower fake praises & over hype keep losing, I feel super comfortable on the feet of Asiwaju/Shettima. Don’t forget The Symbol Is The Broom Together They can never break us. On your Mandate PBAT CP Shall Kneel, Stand, Walk, Work, Dance, Sleep, Grow & Explore. #CpNoSmall”
The socialite’s display of loyalty has sparked a broader conversation about the role of celebrities and influential figures in Nigerian politics. While some argue that such gestures are a personal choice and a sign of respect, others believe they reflect a deeper issue of sycophancy and the idolization of political power.
This incident is not the first time Cubana Chief Priest has publicly shown support for the current administration. Earlier this year, he was seen wearing a cap with the All Progressives Congress (Tinubu) insignia at a social event, which also drew criticism from the public . Additionally, he has been vocal in his support for Vice President Shettima, referring to him as a “good man” and pledging to stand by him .
