Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana)

Obinna Iyiegbu, widely known as Obi Cubana, was born on April 12, 1975, in Oba, a town in Anambra State, Nigeria. He completed his primary education at Central Primary School and secondary education at Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha. His passion for business and leadership started early in life. Obi Cubana went on to attend the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he graduated with a degree in Political Science.

Career and Business Ventures

Obi Cubana’s journey in business began with his founding of Ibiza Club in Abuja in 2006, marking his entry into Nigeria’s hospitality and entertainment industry. In 2009, he founded Cubana Group, a conglomerate that has since become one of the most successful hospitality brands in Nigeria and includes a variety of luxury nightclubs, hotels, and lounges. The Cubana Group has a presence in major Nigerian cities, including Lagos, Owerri, Enugu, and Port Harcourt, making it synonymous with elite nightlife experiences.

Some of the prominent establishments under Cubana Group include:

• Cubana Lounge – a luxury entertainment lounge known for its premium service.
• Pablo Cubana – an upscale restaurant and bar.
• Grand Cubana Hotel – a luxury hotel in Abuja.
• Rolex Hotels – a premium hotel chain within Nigeria.

In addition to hospitality, Obi Cubana has diversified into real estate, and agriculture, and has recently made inroads into technology and other sectors, making him one of Nigeria’s most versatile businessmen.

Achievements and Awards

Obi Cubana’s influence and success in business have earned him several accolades, including:

• Forbes Africa Entrepreneur Award (2022)
• Icon of Hospitality and Tourism Award for his contributions to the hospitality industry
• Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from Enugu State University (2023)
• Most Influential Personality of the Year by Nigerian Entertainment Awards (2021)

Family and Personal Life

Obi Cubana is married to Ebele Iyiegbu, a lawyer and philanthropist. Together, they have four sons and are known for their close-knit family values and public displays of affection. Ebele is also deeply involved in charitable activities and heads the KIEK Foundation, a non-profit focused on empowering underprivileged children in Nigeria. Obi and Ebele’s relationship is admired by fans and seen as a model of family success.

Philanthropy

Obi Cubana is well-known for his generosity and commitment to helping the less fortunate. Through his philanthropic efforts, he has provided scholarships, supported small businesses, and contributed to community development projects, especially in his hometown of Oba. His commitment to giving back has earned him admiration and a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most benevolent entrepreneurs.

Scandals and Controversies

Obi Cubana, born Obinna Iyiegbu, is a prominent Nigerian businessman and socialite whose rapid ascent to wealth and fame has been accompanied by various controversies and public scrutiny. Below is an expanded overview of the notable scandals and issues associated with him:​4

Lavish Lifestyle and EFCC Investigations

In July 2021, Obi Cubana garnered national attention during the opulent funeral of his mother in Oba, Anambra State. The event was marked by extravagant displays of wealth, including lavish cash sprays and the slaughtering of numerous cows, drawing both admiration and criticism. This ostentatious display prompted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate his financial dealings. In November 2021, Obi Cubana was detained by the EFCC on allegations of money laundering and tax fraud. He was released after three days and has consistently maintained that his wealth is the result of hard work and legitimate business ventures.​

Allegations of Ritualistic Practices

In August 2024, during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Obi Cubana revealed that following his wife’s illness after childbirth, rumors circulated accusing him of using her for money rituals. He expressed deep hurt over these allegations, especially since they originated from individuals he considered friends. Obi Cubana recounted how his wife developed a mysterious illness after giving birth on Valentine’s Day, leading to partial paralysis. Despite medical challenges and grim prognoses, she eventually recovered fully, defying doctors’ expectations. He emphasized that his focus during this period was solely on her recovery, making the rumors particularly painful. ​2

Dispute Over Property Lease

In January 2025, reports emerged alleging that Obi Cubana had been served a seven-day notice to vacate a property in Wuse II, Abuja, over unpaid rent. The administrators of the estate owning the property clarified that Cubana was not their tenant and that the notice was issued without their consent. They stated that Cubana Lounge Ltd had a valid lease agreement and was not in arrears, dismissing the eviction notice as invalid. ​Premium Times Nigeria

Social Media Feud with VeryDarkMan (VDM)

The public spat between Obi Cubana and controversial social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) began in early 2024, following Obi Cubana’s criticism of bloggers and online platforms that, in his view, give undue visibility to individuals who habitually disrespect elders and established figures on social media.

In a subtle but pointed remark during an interview, Obi Cubana lamented the rise of a digital culture where disrespect and clout-chasing were rewarded. Though he did not initially mention any names, his comments were widely interpreted as a veiled reference to VDM, who is known for his brash and confrontational style of commentary.

VDM, in typical fashion, responded swiftly and publicly. He released a video on Instagram directly addressing Obi Cubana’s remarks, accusing him of hypocrisy and questioning the integrity of his business dealings and philanthropic initiatives. VDM alleged that many elite figures in Nigeria use their influence to silence dissent and suppress critical voices under the guise of “respect for elders.”

Obi Cubana later responded in a more restrained tone, expressing his disappointment in the rising trend of public disrespect on social platforms. “If this is true, I am highly disappointed,” he said in a now-viral clip, without directly engaging in a back-and-forth with VDM.

Despite calls for calm from fans and public commentators, VDM refused to apologize, doubling down on his claims and framing his criticism as part of a broader movement for transparency and accountability in Nigerian society. The clash stirred heated debates online, with many questioning the role of social media in shaping public narratives and the limits of free speech and criticism in a culturally respectful society.

The episode highlighted ongoing generational tensions in Nigeria, where traditional norms around hierarchy and respect often clash with the unfiltered nature of digital activism. ​4

Denial of Viral False Narratives

In September 2023, Obi Cubana addressed and debunked a viral story circulating on social media that claimed he and his wife began their journey out of poverty by working as laundry workers and living in an uncompleted building. He dismissed the story as false, emphasizing the importance of verifying information before sharing. ​PM News Nigeria

50th Birthday Celebration: A Golden Milestone

On April 12, 2025, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, celebrated his 50th birthday in grand style, marking a major milestone in the life of one of Nigeria’s most influential entrepreneurs and socialites. The event, dubbed #CubanaAt50, was a star-studded affair that drew celebrities, dignitaries, captains of industry, top politicians, royal fathers, and high-ranking clergy from across Nigeria and the diaspora.

The Celebration

The week-long celebration kicked off with charity outreach programs, where Obi Cubana and his Cubana Group extended philanthropic gestures to communities in Oba, Anambra State, and various parts of Nigeria. These included scholarship awards, financial empowerment for widows, food distribution, and free medical outreach—demonstrating his deep-rooted commitment to community development.

The main event, held in Abuja, was a lavish black-tie gala that exuded luxury, elegance, and cultural pride. The venue was transformed into a visual spectacle, with curated decor reflecting both Igbo heritage and modern opulence. The celebration featured live performances by A-list Nigerian musicians, including Davido, Flavour, Kcee, and Phyno, as well as surprise appearances by popular comedians and DJs.

Notable guests in attendance included Governor Charles Soludo, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, former First Lady Patience Jonathan, Chief Emeka Offor, Emoney, Cubana Chief Priest, and numerous Nollywood stars and social media influencers.

Tributes and Speeches

During the event, heartfelt tributes poured in from friends, business associates, and family members, many of whom praised Obi Cubana for his visionary leadership, generosity, and impact in business and society. His wife, Mrs. Ebele Iyiegbu, delivered an emotional tribute, calling him a “pillar of strength, a devoted father, and a rare breed of a husband.”

Obi Cubana himself gave a moving speech, expressing gratitude to God, his family, business partners, and friends. He reflected on his journey from humble beginnings in Oba, Anambra State, to becoming a hospitality mogul and youth mentor.

Cultural Display and Legacy

The event also featured a rich display of Igbo culture, including traditional dances, masquerade performances, and symbolic presentations by titled chiefs. Obi Cubana used the occasion to promote Igbo unity, entrepreneurship, and the importance of cultural heritage.

As part of his birthday legacy project, he announced plans to launch a new foundation focused on youth empowerment, education, and health, further cementing his role as a philanthropic leader.

The 50th birthday of Obi Cubana was more than a celebration of life—it was a testament to success, loyalty, impact, and legacy, solidifying his place not only in the business world but also in the hearts of millions who look up to him as a symbol of Igbo excellence and Nigerian resilience.

Association with Controversial Figures

Obi Cubana faced criticism over a photograph taken with suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari, who was implicated in a fraud case involving internet fraudster Hushpuppi. While the photo led to public speculation about their association, it’s common for public figures to take photos with various individuals, and such images do not necessarily indicate personal or professional relationships.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Obi Cubana’s estimated net worth is around $500 million. His wealth primarily stems from his expansive hospitality ventures, real estate, and other businesses under Cubana Group. His financial success and prominence in Nigeria’s entertainment scene have positioned him as one of the wealthiest figures in Nigeria.

Conclusion

Obi Cubana stands as an icon of Nigerian entrepreneurship, influencing both the hospitality industry and the lives of young Nigerians who aspire to replicate his success. Despite controversies, he has built a legacy of business excellence and philanthropy. His story reflects a blend of ambition, resilience, and strategic vision that has redefined success for the Nigerian youth. As Obi Cubana continues to expand his ventures and impact, he remains a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business and entertainment sectors.

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