Popular entrepreneur and socialite Cubana Chief Priest faced a public embarrassment on Sunday night after being denied entry into the 17th Headies Awards.
The event, held at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos on April 27, 2025, saw the influential figure turned away at the entrance because he did not have an invitation card.
Viral video shows heated exchange
A viral video, shared by RommiRoyal TV on TikTok, captured the heated moment. In the clip, Cubana Chief Priest is seen arguing with security guards as he tries to convince them to let him in. Despite his celebrity status and close ties to major Nigerian artists like Davido, the bouncers stood their ground. The rules were clear no invitation, no entry.
Mixed reactions flood social media
The incident quickly spread across social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and commentators. Many praised the organisers and security team for enforcing strict protocols, even against well-known figures. Others, however, questioned how someone of Cubana Chief Priest’s stature could be left off the guest list of such a major event.
Star-studded night at the landmark
The Headies Awards, known as one of Nigeria’s biggest nights in music, attracted many prominent guests this year. Among them were Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Tanzanian singer Juma Jux, popular actress and host Nancy Isime, and reality TV star Bamike Olawunmi-Adenibuyan, known to fans as Bam Bam.
Throughout the evening, the Landmark Event Centre buzzed with excitement. The crowd cheered as the awards rolled out, celebrating some of the biggest names in African music. Winners included rapper Odumodublvck, who took home major honours, and the late Mohbad, who was honoured posthumously. Davido, Tems, and Rema also received awards, solidifying their status as leaders in the music industry.
Fans debate who was at fault
Despite the glittering success inside the venue, much of the online chatter after the event centred around Cubana Chief Priest’s experience. Some social media users criticised him for not preparing properly for such an important night. Others pointed fingers at the event organisers, asking whether the Headies had overlooked a major personality or if there had been a mix-up.
Interestingly, many also praised the security team’s professionalism. “Rules are rules,” one Twitter user wrote. “Even if you are a superstar, you have to follow them.”
A new era of event protocols
This incident highlights a growing trend in major Nigerian events. Organisers are placing a stronger emphasis on security, planning, and structure, even when dealing with celebrities. In the past, famous faces often received special treatment at concerts, award shows, and high-profile parties. Now, it seems, things are changing.
For Cubana Chief Priest, known for his flamboyant lifestyle, business ventures, and wide network of celebrity friends, the denial was a rare public setback. Yet, his handling of the situation, at least based on the video, showed a man trying to reason rather than cause a bigger scene.
No one above the rules
As conversations continue online, many fans are left wondering: Was it a simple mistake, or a sign that the Headies are raising the bar for event professionalism?
Either way, the story added an unexpected twist to what was otherwise a night of celebration for Nigerian music. For Cubana Chief Priest and many watching, the message was clear in today’s entertainment world: no one is above the rules.
As the dust settles, the 17th Headies Awards will be remembered not just for its winners and performances, but also for a reminder that proper planning remains key, even for the biggest names in town.
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