Police stop installation of Obi of Lagos, detain claimant

Police stop installation of Obi of Lagos, detain claimant

The Lagos State Police Command has detained a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, for reportedly posing as the “Obi of Lagos.”

He was detained with three accused accomplices while attempting to hold an illegal unveiling ceremony.

The arrest came amid rising ethnic tensions, notably among young people on various social media sites who were debating Azubike’s proposed installation.

Azubike, an indigene of the Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Imo State’s Ideato North Local Government Area, was detained together with Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).

The four are being detained at the command headquarters in Ikeja.

According to the police, in a statement posted on X.com on Wednesday, the organization intended to showcase a prototype of an alleged N1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Apple Hall in Amuwo, Odofin.

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The command mentioned that the venue was swiftly sealed off by security operatives to prevent public disturbance and protect unsuspecting citizens from being deceived.

The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, stated that tactical teams, including the Eko Strike Force, were dispatched to the scene to preserve law and order.

He also stated that investigations were ongoing and that the accused would be charged in court once completed.

Jimoh also advised locals to be wary of imposters misusing cultural and traditional institutions, emphasizing that such acts are unlawful and have the potential of disrupting public order.

The police have made similar arrests in the past.

On April 1, 2023, Frederick Nwajagu, the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, was arrested for illegally posing as a titled chief in Lagos.

Police stop installation of Obi of Lagos, detain claimant