Celebrity influencer and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, could severely damage his chances of securing votes in the South East in the 2027 general elections.

The warning follows renewed tension in the region after Kanu’s latest court appearance yesterday, where his legal team again demanded his release and accused the Federal Government of prolonging his trial. The case has heightened political and social conversations across the South East, with many stakeholders insisting that Kanu’s prolonged detention remains a major source of regional discontent, especially amongst the Igbos.

Reacting in a strongly worded message posted on his Instagram account, Cubana Chief Priest told the President that keeping Kanu in custody would come at a heavy political cost.

“President, 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 will not lie to you. As a friend of your government, I have no reason to whitewash you,” he wrote.

He described Kanu as a central figure in the region, stating that his incarceration has created deep resentment and stalled political engagement.

“MNK is the supreme leader of the South-east. His detention has caused us so much setbacks, and I am surprised that all your ministers from the South East cannot tell you the truth because they are cowards,” he said.

He also accused political appointees from the zone of lacking the credibility and influence needed to strengthen the President’s acceptance among the people.

“None of them has the capacity to do anything that will make the people love and respect you. As for the governors, they will disappoint you because they have nothing meaningful to present to the people. Only MNK’s release can save you,” he added.

Cubana Chief Priest further cautioned the President not to rely on the loyalty of political officeholders, saying their influence over voters is limited.

“The Villa is like a hotel. A few more days and the checkout time will reach. Only MNK can guarantee you real votes from the South East,” he added.

He advised Tinubu to work closely with Abia State Governor Alex Otti, whom he described as a credible figure with genuine influence in the region. He criticised the President’s decision to decline Otti’s invitation to commission projects in Abia, saying the move hurt local goodwill.

“I was surprised when you turned down his invitation to commission his projects in Abia, where MNK hails from, and instead sent an incompetent minister who has done nothing for us,” he said, adding that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives had also worsened tensions by “attacking our favoured Governor Otti.”

Cubana Chief Priest’s remarks add to a growing volume of political reactions following Kanu’s appearance in court, with analysts warning that the case will remain a major factor in national politics ahead of the 2027 elections. (VANGUARD)