The recent political appointment of entrepreneur Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, linked to the second term aspirations of President Bola Tinubu by his support base, has continued to stir debate among his critics and supporters.
The controversy was triggered after social media commentator VeryDarkMan released a viral video attacking Cubana for accepting the position of South-East Coordinator of the City Boy Movement, a youth-oriented political group aligned with the Tinubu administration.
The critic described Cubana as a “glorified errand boy,” a remark that quickly ignited arguments over political loyalty, regional identity, and personal choice.
While some Nigerians accused the businessman of betraying South-East interests, which has been angling for the zone to produce the next president, others defended his right to engage politically beyond ethnic or regional lines.
The disagreement has since evolved into a broader conversation about how public figures from the South-East navigate national politics in a deeply polarised climate.
Appointment Sparks Online Backlash
Obi Cubana was appointed earlier in the week by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to coordinate the City Boy Movement in the South-East.
The movement positions itself as a youth-driven political platform supporting civic participation and government engagement.
In a February 3 report by JolibaLive News, Cubana explained that his decision to accept the role was rooted in national inclusion rather than partisan loyalty.
“This role reflects my commitment to inclusive national development,” he said.
Following the backlash, Cubana also addressed critics in a Facebook post, urging restraint and tolerance.
“We must learn to respect differing views and focus on building real value,” he wrote.
However, VeryDarkMan rejected that explanation in a video shared on Tuesday.
He questioned Cubana’s influence within the South-East and mocked his performance during the movement’s solidarity song.
“You are just an errand boy,” the influencer said, suggesting that the businessman was being used for optics rather than genuine political relevance.
The video circulated widely on Facebook, X, and Instagram, drawing thousands of comments and reshaping the online narrative around the appointment.
Supporters and Critics Clash Over Loyalty
Reactions from the public have been sharply divided, particularly among South-East social media users.
Several commenters accused Cubana of abandoning the political sentiments widely associated with the region following the 2023 elections.
One Facebook user wrote, “The trap don catch you.”
Another added, “You will still vote PO, abeg collect your own national cake.”
Others warned that aligning with a Tinubu-backed movement amounted to working “against your own people.”
Supporters of Cubana pushed back against that framing.
Some argued that political participation should not be restricted by ethnicity or regional expectations.
“People should be allowed to support whoever they want,” one user commented.
Another wrote, “Protect your pocket and interest before any other thing.”
The debate has extended beyond Cubana as a person, touching on questions about whether successful South-East entrepreneurs are expected to adopt a single political posture.
Public Figures and the Cost of Political Alignment
Obi Cubana has built a strong public image as a hospitality investor and cultural influencer, especially in the South-East.
His brand has often been associated with community upliftment, philanthropy, and youth empowerment.
That public goodwill is now being tested as online commentators weigh his political engagement against regional expectations.
While Cubana has not responded directly to VeryDarkMan’s remarks, his earlier call for respect and value-driven dialogue is still circulating.
As the City Boy Movement expands its activities across regions, the reactions to Cubana’s appointment may influence how other high-profile figures approach political roles.
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