The Lagos State Police Command has detained a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, for falsely claiming to be the “Obi of Lagos” and attempting to carry out an unauthorized installation ceremony. The arrest occurred on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, just days before the planned unveiling of a prototype “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” valued at N1.5 billion, which was scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos. Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended alongside three accomplices—Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41)—all currently in police custody at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
The Lagos Police acted on credible intelligence that the group had finalized arrangements to unveil the unauthorized palace and ceremony, which threatened to mislead the public and potentially disrupt public peace. The police swiftly sealed off the venue and deployed conventional officers, the Eko Strike Force, and tactical squads to prevent the event from taking place. This proactive measure ensured the safety of unsuspecting residents and maintained law and order during the incident.
DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, stated, “Acting on credible intelligence, operatives sealed off the venue to prevent a breach of public peace and to protect unsuspecting residents from being deceived.” The police are conducting ongoing investigations into the activities of Azubike and his accomplices and have assured the public that those found culpable will face prosecution.
Lagos Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, warned the public to remain vigilant against impostors exploiting revered cultural and traditional institutions for personal gain. He described the suspects’ actions as unlawful and a direct affront to the statutes of Lagos State and societal peace, emphasizing the police’s commitment to decisively curbing attempts that undermine legality and public order. “Such unlawful acts are not only criminal but also a direct affront to the statutes of Lagos State and a threat to societal peace,” the Commissioner cautioned.
The arrest has significant implications for public trust and the integrity of traditional roles in Lagos, especially as the “Obi of Lagos” is a respected traditional title that holds cultural importance. Experts caution that unauthorized claims to such titles could fuel ethnic tensions and social disorder, risking community harmony. Past instances of similar impersonations have been met with legal action to safeguard the cultural institutions and public safety.
The Lagos State Police Command is expected to conclude the investigation soon and release the outcomes to the public, with the suspects likely facing charges related to their fraudulent claims and the planned unauthorized installation ceremony. Authorities urge Lagos residents and the wider community to be cautious of individuals attempting to manipulate cultural institutions for illicit purposes and to report suspicious activities promptly to security agencies.
In summary, this incident highlights the critical role of law enforcement in safeguarding traditional institutions from exploitation. The Lagos Police’s swift intervention prevented potential widespread deception and public unrest. Moving forward, continuous public awareness and vigilance will be essential in protecting the dignity and lawful governance of cultural titles within the state.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding legality and cultural respect within Lagos’s dynamic social fabric, ensuring that traditional leadership remains a source of unity rather than contention. Authorities will continue monitoring and acting against any such fraudulent attempts in the future to maintain peace and order.
