I Have Never Benefited From Govt Patronage – Obi Cubana Gives Reason For Involvement In Politics

Obinna Iyiegbu, the Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has said his foray into politics is motivated by a commitment to foster meaningful participation and inclusive governance in Nigeria.

Obi Cubana, in a statement issued on Monday, clarified that his growing involvement in politics and political discourse is not motivated by personal gain or ambition.

According to the Nigerian billionaire, his career as a private citizen was built through hard work, entrepreneurship, and strategic investments, stressing that he has never held public office nor benefited from government patronage.

Cubana maintained that his participation in politics is aimed at bridging the gap between the government and citizens, particularly among young people and across diverse regions.

He also called for deliberate efforts by government at all levels to strengthen transparency, accountability, and empathy, noting that trust remains the foundation of any functional democracy.

Obi Cubana also dismissed recent criticisms of his public comments about Igbos lacking knowledge, stressing that he will never subscribe to any narrative that undermines the intelligence, unity, or contributions of the Igbo people or any ethnic group in Nigeria.

The statement read, “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.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.”

Speaking about his association with the City Boy Movement, Obi Cubana explained that the initiative focuses on encouraging inclusive political participation, especially among youths and the private sector and cautioned against framing political participation along ethnic lines.

He added, “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.

“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.”