The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, who allegedly paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” along with three accomplices, in what authorities described as a foiled attempt to mislead the public through an unlawful installation ceremony.
The Command said Azubike, who hails from Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended with three others: 57-year-old Chief Chibuzor Ani, 65-year-old Chief Martins Nwaodika, and 41-year-old Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi. All four are currently in custody at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
According to the police, intelligence reports revealed that the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a supposed ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.
“Acting on this information, the police, including conventional operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical squads, moved to the premises earmarked for the ceremony,” the police said in a statement. “Their presence was to ensure that the event did not hold as planned and to maintain public order and peace within the area.”
The Lagos Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, condemned the attempted installation, warning Lagos residents against impostors and individuals seeking to exploit cultural and traditional institutions.
“These actions are unlawful, contrary to the statutes of Lagos State, and capable of breaching the peace of the society,” Jimoh stated. “The Command will continue to enforce the law firmly and decisively against any individual or group engaging in acts that undermine legality, public order, and the integrity of the state.”
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing into the activities of the suspects, and the outcome will be made public before they are charged to court.