
In a fiery and emotionally charged reaction that has taken social media by storm, popular Nigerian socialite and nightlife entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest has come to the defense of his close friend and business mogul, E-Money, following the latter’s reported arrest over alleged abuse of the Naira and spraying of foreign currency. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had earlier confirmed that E-Money, born Emeka Okonkwo, was arrested for questioning regarding acts that allegedly violate Nigeria’s currency handling laws. But Cubana Chief Priest is not having any of it.
Taking to Instagram to voice his outrage, Cubana Chief Priest shared a passionate message, accusing authorities of targeting E-Money simply because of his growing influence and recent efforts to uplift the Southeast region. “This is a guy who just did everything to push up Southeast with his just concluded homecoming concert this Easter,” he wrote, referring to the massive event that E-Money hosted in his hometown, which drew thousands and celebrated Igbo culture, wealth, and unity. “I knew they will come for him because they just saw his strength,” he continued, suggesting that E-Money’s rising status is perceived as a threat by certain powerful interests.
The flamboyant celebrity, known for his unapologetic display of affluence and vocal support for Igbo unity, didn’t stop there. His statement went further to accuse the system of deliberate oppression, not just of E-Money, but of the Igbo people as a whole. “They are doing this so they can break him, so as to make him succumb in supporting them under duress,” he said, framing the arrest as a political and tribal maneuver meant to force compliance from a rising Igbo elite who have refused to bow. “The oppression on us Igbos will never stop, but let me tell all of you we will never stop.”
The arrest of E-Money has triggered widespread conversation online, with opinions split between those who believe he should be held accountable if he indeed violated the law, and those who see the EFCC’s action as yet another example of selective prosecution aimed at prominent figures from the Southeast. Cubana Chief Priest’s comment poured fuel on that fire, especially with his defiant message that Igbos will “reciprocate how we were treated with our energy, brotherhood, support, votes, and affluence.”
For many, the timing of the arrest couldn’t be more suspicious. Coming just days after E-Money’s well-received Easter concert and acts of public generosity, including cash giveaways and youth empowerment gestures, it has led supporters to wonder whether there is a deeper agenda at play. Cubana Chief Priest seems convinced of it. “We don’t lie, we multiply. More billionaires are coming up,” he declared with bold optimism, framing the arrest as nothing more than a bump in the road for a people destined for greater success.
He went on to directly address E-Money with words of solidarity and encouragement: “@iam_emoney1 it’s nothing brother. I’ve been there. It will make you stronger.” Drawing parallels between hardship and prestige, he added, “It’s just like our Rolls Royce—na location for the rich and famous, na status symbol.” The analogy struck a chord with many of his followers, suggesting that going through state scrutiny is now a twisted badge of honor for those who dare to rise without political permission.
Cubana Chief Priest’s response is part of a larger, ongoing narrative about the treatment of wealthy and influential figures from Nigeria’s Southeast, particularly those who flaunt their independence from the political establishment. The arrest of E-Money, who is often hailed as a generous businessman and philanthropist, has reignited concerns about double standards and the uneven application of justice in the country. Critics argue that celebrities and entrepreneurs from other regions who engage in similar currency-related displays are rarely targeted with such speed or intensity.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the tone of the reaction from the Southeast has been one of resilience, defiance, and brotherhood. From the streets to social media, conversations have centered around the idea that no amount of intimidation will stop the momentum of Igbo excellence, especially as the 2027 general elections loom on the horizon. Cubana Chief Priest didn’t mince words about that future either: “Come 2027, we will support and vote for who we want to,” he wrote, signaling a clear intent to back candidates that align with the region’s values and aspirations, not those imposed through fear or coercion.
As the news of the arrest continues to spread, and investigations unfold, all eyes will remain on both E-Money’s next moves and the EFCC’s handling of the case. But if one thing is certain, it’s that the Southeast elite is standing shoulder to shoulder, publicly and unapologetically. Cubana Chief Priest’s outburst may have been emotional, but it captured a sentiment shared by many—a growing refusal to remain silent in the face of perceived injustice.
Whether or not E-Money is eventually cleared of all allegations, this incident has already deepened the narrative of resistance and resilience among the Igbo business community. It’s a story that goes beyond money spraying or Naira abuse. It’s about power, identity, and the right to succeed without being shackled by political expectations. And in the words of Cubana Chief Priest, it’s about turning every attack into fuel for even greater success: “We won’t be broken. We will even be stronger.”