Prominent Nigerian businessman Obi Cubana has found himself at the centre of an intense public debate following his appointment as South-East Coordinator of the City Boy Movement, a political support group linked to President Bola Tinubu.
The appointment, formally presented by Seyi Tinubu, has drawn mixed reactions online, with critics questioning the timing, symbolism, and broader implications for Nigeria’s political climate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Appointment and Its Political Weight
The City Boy Movement is widely regarded as a grassroots mobilisation platform working toward the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027. By appointing Obi Cubana as its South-East Coordinator, the movement appears to be targeting influential figures with strong regional appeal to consolidate political support.
Obi Cubana, whose real name is Obi Iyiegbu, commands significant influence across business, entertainment, and youth circles in the South-East. His appointment is therefore seen as a strategic move to bridge political messaging with grassroots popularity in a region where federal support for the ruling party has historically been fragile.
Public Backlash and Online Criticism
Following reports of the appointment, social media platforms were flooded with criticism. Many Nigerians accused the billionaire entrepreneur of being disconnected from the economic hardship facing ordinary citizens, arguing that accepting a political role at such a time sends the wrong message.
Some commenters questioned whether wealthy business figures should align openly with political structures amid rising inflation, unemployment, and cost-of-living pressures. Others described the appointment as politically insensitive, especially in a region grappling with economic and security challenges.
Obi Cubana Responds
In response to the backlash, Obi Cubana took to his official Facebook page to defend his decision, offering clarity on his motivations.
According to him, sustainable change cannot be achieved through withdrawal or silence. Instead, he argued that meaningful progress requires engagement from within the system.
While he did not directly address every criticism, his statement framed the appointment as an opportunity to influence dialogue, advocate for regional interests, and participate constructively in Nigeria’s political process rather than remain on the sidelines.
Background: Business, Influence, and Politics
Obi Cubana rose to national prominence through hospitality, nightlife, and entertainment ventures, later becoming a symbol of modern entrepreneurial success in the South-East. Over the years, his brand has expanded beyond business into philanthropy and youth empowerment, giving him a broad support base.
His growing visibility has often sparked speculation about possible political involvement. This appointment now places him formally within a political mobilisation structure tied to the presidency, marking a notable shift from informal influence to official political engagement.
Key Implications
The development highlights a broader trend in Nigerian politics: the increasing reliance on business and cultural influencers to mobilise political support.
For the Tinubu camp, the move signals an early effort to consolidate regional alliances ahead of 2027. For Obi Cubana, it represents a calculated entry into a politically sensitive space that could redefine his public image beyond business.
What Happens Next
As preparations for the next election cycle gradually intensify, attention will likely focus on how the City Boy Movement operates in the South-East and whether Obi Cubana’s involvement translates into tangible political mobilisation or policy influence.
Public scrutiny is also expected to remain high, as Nigerians continue to debate the role of wealthy elites in shaping political outcomes during periods of widespread economic strain.
Obi Cubana officially unveiled as Regional Director of the City Boy Movement as Seyi Tinubu presents his recognition letter. The crowd erupts into “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand.”
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) February 3, 2026
