The Lagos State Police Command has smashed an audacious plot to illegally crown a so-called “Obi of Lagos,” arresting a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, and three alleged accomplices in what authorities described as a deliberate attempt to exploit traditional institutions and incite public unrest.
Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended alongside Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41). They were nabbed while preparing for an unlawful unveiling ceremony in Amuwo Odofin.
According to the police, the group had announced plans to launch a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall. Security operatives swiftly sealed off the venue to avert chaos and protect unsuspecting attendees from being deceived.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed that tactical units, including the Eko Strike Force, were deployed to the scene. He said the suspects are currently being interrogated at the command headquarters in Ikeja and will face charges in court after investigations.
Jimoh further cautioned Lagos residents against falling prey to impostors, stressing that such actions are criminal, fraudulent, and capable of destabilising public peace.
This latest arrest adds to a growing list of impostors exploiting cultural symbols in Lagos. On April 1, 2023, the police similarly arrested Frederick Nwajagu, the self-styled Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, over unlawful claims to traditional authority in the state.
