Cubana Chief Priest : I Moved My Business to Lagos Due to Southeast Insecurity

 Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has opened up about the challenges of operating his business in the southeast, citing insecurity as the primary reason for relocating to Lagos.

In a recent interview with BBC Igbo, the well-known nightlife promoter explained that the rising incidents of kidnappings and violence have significantly affected customer turnout in the southeast.

"I moved my business to Lagos because many of our people are afraid to go home. If they come home, I can run my business," Cubana Chief Priest shared.

He highlighted the severe hunger and economic hardship in the region, pointing out that local community members sometimes provide criminals with information. This situation has led to wealthy individuals becoming targets, resulting in their reluctance to return home for festivities. Consequently, Cubana Chief Priest decided that relocating his business to Lagos was a necessary move to ensure its success and safety.

In addition to the business relocation, Cubana Chief Priest is currently embroiled in a legal matter concerning the alleged misuse of naira notes. A Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned his case to June 25. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged him on April 17 with three counts related to spraying and tampering with naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos.

Cubana Chief Priest pleaded not guilty to these charges and was granted bail set at N10 million.

This development underscores the broader issue of security challenges in Nigeria's southeast, which have far-reaching impacts on businesses and the local economy. As entrepreneurs like Cubana Chief Priest seek safer environments to operate, addressing the root causes of insecurity becomes crucial for the region's stability and prosperity.