Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has said his growing involvement in politics is not driven by personal ambition or gain.
Obi Cubana, who supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stated that his engagement in political discourse is motivated by a desire to promote inclusive governance and meaningful participation in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, he explained that his role is aimed at bridging the gap between government and citizens, particularly among young people and across different regions of the country.
“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,” he said.
“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 noted that his recent exposure to political processes has revealed a disconnect between government policies and citizens’ expectations, even when such policies are well-intentioned.
“The gap between government and the people is real, and it is reflected in overwhelming public opinion. In recent months, I have observed that many policies, though designed with good intentions, fail to make a tangible impact on citizens, either due to poor communication or inadequate understanding of public expectations,” he stated.
Obi Cubana called for deliberate efforts by governments at all levels to improve transparency, accountability, and empathy, stressing that public trust remains central to any functional 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.
He also addressed criticisms surrounding his recent comments, dismissing claims of anti-Igbo sentiment and describing such narratives as 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 false and only serve to create division,” he said.
The businessman further advocated a coordinated approach to governance across local, state, and federal levels to ensure meaningful development.
“We must begin to see governance as an integrated system. Development cannot be centralised; it must be coordinated across all tiers to truly impact lives,” he noted.
Speaking on his association with the City Boy Movement, Obi Cubana said the initiative seeks to encourage broader political participation, especially among youths and the private sector.
“The City Boy Movement represents an opportunity to redefine civic engagement by creating space for constructive dialogue where young Nigerians and the private sector can actively contribute to governance and policy direction,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to move away from ethnic-based politics and focus on ideas and policies that promote unity and national progress.
“Reducing political participation to ethnic sentiments diminishes the essence of democracy. Our focus should be on ideas, policies, and collective progress—not divisive narratives,” he concluded.
