Cubana Chief Priest Denied Entry at 17th Headies Awards: A Case of Money Not Buying Access

The 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Awards, held at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, was a night of glitz, glamour, and celebration of Nigerian music. However, it also became the stage for an unexpected drama that set social media ablaze. Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, was reportedly bounced at the event’s entrance for not possessing a valid invitation, sparking widespread conversation about wealth, access, and protocol.

A viral video circulating online captured the moment the celebrity businessman and socialite, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and close ties to music industry heavyweights like Davido, was seen engaging with security personnel at the venue’s entrance. Despite his high-profile status, Cubana Chief Priest was unable to gain entry, as security strictly enforced the event’s invitation-only policy. The incident, witnessed by onlookers and quickly amplified on platforms like X, became a focal point of discussion, with netizens dissecting the situation with a mix of humor, criticism, and commentary on social dynamics.

The Incident: A Public Embarrassment

In the video, Cubana Chief Priest, dressed in his signature lavish attire, appeared to be in a heated exchange with security staff. While the exact words exchanged were unclear, the outcome was evident: he was not allowed past the entrance. Sources close to the event confirmed that the Headies organizers maintained a tight guest list, prioritizing invited nominees, industry stakeholders, and accredited media. Without an official invite, even a personality as prominent as Cubana Chief Priest was turned away.

This isn’t the first time the nightlife mogul has faced such a situation. Social media users were quick to draw parallels to a previous incident at Davido’s O2 Arena concert in London, where Cubana Chief Priest was reportedly escorted out of the backstage area by security. The recurrence of such moments has fueled public discourse about the limits of wealth and influence when faced with strict event protocols.

Social Media Reactions: A Mix of Humor and Shade

As expected, X was abuzz with reactions to the Headies snub. Users posted clips of the incident, accompanied by witty captions and memes that highlighted the irony of a man known for his opulent displays being denied entry. One user wrote, “Cubana Chief Priest bounced at Headies for no invite. The perfect example of you fit get money, make you no get level atall.” Another quipped, “Money can buy a lot, but not an invite to the Headies apparently. Oga Chief Priest go learn today.”

Others took a more empathetic stance, arguing that the public humiliation was unnecessary. “Yes, he didn’t have an invite, but was it necessary to make it a spectacle? They could’ve handled it discreetly,” one user commented. The incident also sparked broader conversations about the exclusivity of high-profile events and the importance of respecting organizational protocols, regardless of one’s social standing.

Cubana Chief Priest: The Larger-Than-Life Persona

Cubana Chief Priest, the self-proclaimed “Celebrity Bar Man,” is no stranger to the limelight. As the owner of Cubana Group, a chain of upscale lounges and clubs across Nigeria, he has built a brand synonymous with luxury, nightlife, and celebrity connections. His close association with Afrobeats superstar Davido and his frequent appearances at major events have cemented his status as a pop culture figure. However, incidents like the Headies snub highlight the boundaries even the most prominent personalities can face.

The entrepreneur has yet to publicly address the Headies incident, but his silence has not stopped the online chatter. For many, the moment underscores a broader lesson: wealth and fame do not always translate to universal access, especially in spaces governed by strict rules.

The Headies: A Night of Triumph Overshadowed

The 17th Headies Awards, themed “Harmony in Diversity,” celebrated the best of Nigerian music, with artists like Rema, Burna Boy, and Asake dominating nominations. The event, known for its high production value and star-studded attendance, aimed to showcase the global rise of Afrobeats and honor the industry’s trailblazers. While the awards ceremony itself proceeded smoothly, the Cubana Chief Priest incident became an unintended sideshow, drawing attention away from the night’s achievements.

Organizers of the Headies have not issued an official statement regarding the incident, likely to avoid further fueling the controversy. However, the strict enforcement of entry protocols reflects the event’s commitment to maintaining order and exclusivity, even at the risk of turning away high-profile figures.

A Lesson in Protocol and Privilege

The Cubana Chief Priest saga at the 17th Headies Awards serves as a reminder that no one is above the rules, no matter how wealthy or well-connected. In an era where social media amplifies every moment, the incident has sparked a mix of amusement and reflection among Nigerians. For some, it’s a humorous anecdote about the limits of “big man” status; for others, it’s a commentary on the need for humility and respect for established systems.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the Headies 2025 will be remembered not only for its celebration of music but also for the moment when Cubana Chief Priest learned that even the flashiest persona needs an invite to make it through the door.