Celebrity businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has denied participating in the All Progressives Congress primary election for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency seat in Imo State.
He said he voluntarily withdrew from the race after Governor Hope Uzodimma explained the party’s zoning arrangement to him.
Okechukwu made the clarification in a series of Instagram posts on Sunday, countering earlier claims that he participated in the primary and secured only 14 votes.
He insisted he never took part in the voting exercise and that he stepped down before the election was held.
“I did not participate. In fact, I did not go to the primaries venue,” he wrote.
He explained that his initial ambition was driven by dissatisfaction with the performance of the incumbent lawmaker representing the constituency.
“My decision and resolve to aspire for the office was born out of my conviction that the current holder of the office was not living up to the expectations and aspirations of our people,” he said.
However, he said he respected the party’s zoning formula, which indicated that Orlu Local Government Area should complete its rotation before another area produces a candidate.
Following consultations, he said he chose to withdraw in line with the decision of the party leadership.
“In respect for the party and its leadership, I chose not to proceed to the field,” he said.
He dismissed reports suggesting financial disputes arising from the process, insisting he owed no one any money over his political ambition.
Okechukwu also reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged continued support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections through his City Boy Movement.