OWERRI – Tensions boiled over in the Imo State capital on Wednesday as a convoy belonging to the “City Boy Movement,” a political support group associated with businessman Obi Cubana, was reportedly attacked by a mob of angry youths.
The incident occurred near Owerri Square during a mobilization event for the movement, which supports the 2027 re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Images from the scene show at least one white transit van, marked with the “City Boy Movement South-East Zone” insignia, with significant damage to its side panels and shattered windows.
Disputed Accounts of the Violence
According to eyewitnesses, the violence erupted after youths who had been mobilized to attend the rally allegedly failed to receive promised financial compensation. “Some youths who received money to mobilize turned against the group upon arrival,” one witness stated, noting that the situation escalated into stone-throwing as the convoy reached the venue.
However, some supporters of the movement have countered these reports, suggesting the damage may have been the result of a road accident rather than a deliberate ambush.
Growing Criticism and Regional Pushback
The attack comes amid intensifying scrutiny of high-profile Southeast businessmen, including Obi Cubana and Cubana Chief Priest, who have recently aligned themselves with the “City Boy Movement”.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from Nigerians who view the alliance as a “misplaced priority” given the current economic climate. Critics have accused the businessmen of “betraying” the region’s youth for political gain.
- “Politics of Benefit”: Social media commentators have slammed the participants, with one netizen remarking, “I can smell misplaced priority eating deeply into the very fibre of structural ties”.
- Regional Sensitivity: Others questioned the wisdom of promoting a “City Boy” campaign in the Southeast, a region where President Tinubu has historically struggled to gain significant traction.
Despite the backlash, the movement continues its expansion, having recently inaugurated its Imo State Working Committee and received donations of brand-new campaign buses from its billionaire patrons.
