Obinna Iyiegbu, widely known as Obi Cubana, the Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite, has stated that his growing involvement in politics stems from a desire to promote active citizen participation and inclusive governance across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Monday, Obi Cubana emphasized that his engagement in political discussions is not driven by personal ambition or gain.
The billionaire clarified that he built his career as a private citizen through entrepreneurship, strategic investments, and hard work, noting that he has never held a public office or received government favors.
Cubana stressed that his political involvement aims to bridge the gap between the government and the people, particularly focusing on young Nigerians and the country’s diverse regions. He also urged governments at all levels to prioritize transparency, accountability, and empathy, highlighting trust as the cornerstone of a healthy democracy.
Addressing recent criticisms over his remarks about Igbos, Obi Cubana dismissed the claims, emphasizing that he would never endorse any narrative that diminishes the intelligence, contributions, or unity of the Igbo community or any ethnic group in Nigeria.
He stated:
“I have built my career as a private citizen through entrepreneurship and hard work. I have never held public office or benefited from government patronage. My participation in political discussions is motivated solely by the goal of creating platforms for meaningful engagement between the youth and older generations, and across Nigeria’s regions.
The disconnect between government and citizens is real, and it is reflected in public opinion. Many policies, though well-intentioned, fail to achieve tangible results because they are poorly communicated or not fully aligned with citizens’ expectations.
Regaining citizens’ trust requires consistent and deliberate effort. In a democracy, the people hold the ultimate power, and their voices must guide governance.
I will never support any narrative that undermines the intelligence, unity, or contributions of the Igbo people or any other ethnic group. Such claims are false and only serve to divide us, weakening the strength we need as a nation.
Governance must be approached as an integrated system from local to state to federal levels. Development cannot be centralized; it must be coordinated across all tiers to create meaningful impact.”
On his involvement with the City Boy Movement, Obi Cubana explained that the initiative seeks to foster inclusive political participation, especially among youths and the private sector, while cautioning against ethnicizing political engagement.
“The City Boy Movement is about redefining civic participation. It creates a space for constructive dialogue, allowing young Nigerians and the private sector to actively contribute to governance and policy-making.
Reducing political movements to ethnic issues undermines democracy. Our priority should be ideas, policies, and collective progress, not divisive narratives.”