BREAKING: Obi Cubana Named “City Boy” Leader in the South East — But Many Igbos Are Not Smiling

So it finally happened.
Social media woke up to the news that popular businessman and nightlife mogul Obi Cubana has been appointed as the South East leader of the City Boy movement, and as expected, the internet did not keep calm. While some hailed it as “strategy” and “political alignment,” a loud section of Igbo voices is calling it a big disappointment.
Let’s be honest: Obi Cubana is not just any name. He represents wealth, influence, youth appeal, and modern Igbo success. That is exactly why this appointment is rubbing many people the wrong way.
“Leader of Who?” — The Core of the Anger
Many Igbos are asking a simple but piercing question:
Who consulted the South East?
For a region that has consistently complained about marginalisation, political neglect, and lack of inclusion at the federal level, accepting a political title tied to an external power structure feels, to some, like endorsing the same system that sidelines the region.
Online critics argue that:
The appointment looks symbolic, not substantive
It offers no clear benefit to the average Igbo youth
It risks reducing the South East to a cheering squad instead of a negotiating bloc
“From Business Icon to Political Tool?”
Another angle fuelling the backlash is the belief that Obi Cubana’s acceptance may turn him from a neutral business figure into a political instrument.
Many young Igbos admired him for staying above partisan politics — focusing on enterprise, empowerment, and cultural pride. Now, critics say the move:
Blurs the line between economic influence and political loyalty
May alienate a large portion of his fan base
Undermines the collective political bargaining power of the region
One viral comment put it bluntly:
“We needed a voice, not a mascot.”
Supporters Push Back
Of course, not everyone is angry. Supporters argue that:
You can’t influence power without being close to it
Obi Cubana is simply playing the long game
The South East needs more people inside the room, not outside shouting
But even among supporters, there’s an uncomfortable silence on one issue:
What exactly does the South East gain from this appointment?
Final Take
This is bigger than Obi Cubana as a person. It’s about representation, timing, and consent.
Until Nigerians — especially Igbos — see clear benefits, policies, or commitments tied to this role, the appointment will continue to feel like political optics over regional interest.
For now, one thing is clear:
The title may be shiny, but the acceptance has left many in the South East deeply unimpressed.