Fake “Obi of Lagos” Arrested in Lagos, Police Foil N1.5bn Palace Installation
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, for allegedly parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” in what authorities described as a brazen attempt to deceive the public and undermine the state’s revered traditional institutions.
Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, along with three accomplices: Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).
According to the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi B. Oluseyi, the arrests followed credible intelligence reports that the suspects had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported N1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.
“The suspects are currently in detention and investigations are ongoing. They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation,” DSP Oluseyi confirmed.
Acting on the intelligence, Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, ordered tactical deployments to the venue, including Eko Strike Force units and other security squads, to seal off the hall and ensure that the event did not hold.
The Police Commissioner also cautioned Lagosians to remain vigilant against impostors attempting to exploit the state’s cultural and traditional institutions.
“Such acts are unlawful, undermine the integrity of Lagos State, and pose a potential threat to public peace,” CP Jimoh warned.
The foiled attempt has since sparked heated conversations across Lagos, where traditional titles carry immense cultural weight and identity. Security analysts say the police intervention prevented what could have escalated into large-scale confusion and possible unrest. Read More
