Nigerian businessman and socialite Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has firmly rejected suggestions that his increasing participation in political discourse is motivated by personal ambition, personal gain, or a desire for public office.
In a detailed personal statement issued on Monday, March 23, 2026, the entrepreneur and staunch supporter of President Bola Tinubu emphasized that his engagement stems from a genuine commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue, rebuilding public trust in government, and encouraging inclusive participation, particularly among young Nigerians and across the country’s diverse regions.
“I have built my career as a private citizen through hard work, entrepreneurship, and strategic investments. I have never held public office nor benefited from government patronage,” Obi Cubana stated.
“My involvement in political discourse is purely driven by a desire to create platforms for meaningful engagement, especially between young people and the older generation, and across Nigeria’s diverse regions.”
He highlighted a growing disconnect between well-intentioned government policies and citizens’ lived realities, attributing it to poor communication, inadequate implementation, and a lack of alignment with public expectations.
“The gap between government and the people is real, and it is reflected in overwhelming public opinion. In the last few months, I have observed that many policies, though designed with good intentions, fail to make a tangible impact on citizens, either because they are not communicated effectively or implemented with a full understanding of citizens’ expectations,” he said.
Obi Cubana called for deliberate action by leaders at all levels to prioritize transparency, accountability, and empathy, describing trust as the cornerstone of democracy.
“It is unfortunate when citizens lose trust in their government. Rebuilding that trust must be a continuous and intentional effort. The people ultimately hold the power in a democracy, and their voices must be respected and reflected in governance,” he added.
Addressing recent online criticisms and accusations of promoting anti-Igbo narratives, the businessman dismissed such claims as baseless and divisive.
“I have never, and will never, subscribe to any narrative that undermines the intelligence, unity, or contribution of the Igbo people or any ethnic group in Nigeria. Such insinuations are not only false but are attempts to create division and weaken the collective strength we need as a nation,” he declared.
He advocated for a more integrated approach to governance, urging better coordination between local, state, and federal authorities to deliver real development.
“We must begin to see governance as an integrated system, from local governments to state and federal levels. Development cannot be centralised; it must be coordinated across all tiers to truly impact the lives of the people,” Obi Cubana noted.
On the City Boy Movement, with which he is closely associated, he clarified that the initiative is non-ethnic and focused on redefining civic engagement by creating platforms for young Nigerians and the private sector to contribute constructively to policy and governance.
“The City Boy Movement represents an opportunity to redefine civic engagement. It is about creating space for constructive dialogue, where young Nigerians and the private sector can actively participate in shaping governance and policy direction,” he explained.
He concluded by cautioning against ethnic framing of political participation, urging Nigerians to focus on ideas, policies, and national progress instead of divisive narratives.
“Reducing any political movement to ethnic sentiments diminishes the essence of democracy. Our focus should be on ideas, policies, and collective progress, not divisive narratives,” Obi Cubana said.
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