The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, for allegedly parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos” and attempting to hold an illegal installation ceremony.
Azubike, an indigene of the Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North LGA of Imo State, was arrested along with three alleged accomplices: Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41). The suspects are currently in custody at the command headquarters in Ikeja.
According to a police statement released on X.com, the group planned to unveil a prototype of a supposed ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall in Amuwo Odofin. Security operatives sealed off the venue to prevent public disorder and protect citizens from being misled.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed that tactical units, including the Eko Strike Force, were deployed to the location. He stated that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be prosecuted once concluded.
Jimoh urged Lagos residents to be cautious of impostors exploiting traditional institutions, emphasizing that such actions are illegal and threaten public peace.
This incident mirrors a similar case from April 1, 2023, when Frederick Nwajagu, the self-proclaimed Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, was arrested for unlawfully assuming a traditional title in Lagos.
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