Police Arrest Fake ‘Obi of Lagos’, Foil N1.5bn Palace Unveiling Plot
The Lagos State Police Command on Wednesday arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, for allegedly parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos” and attempting to stage an unlawful installation ceremony.
Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was arrested alongside three alleged accomplices: Chief Chibuzor Ani, 57; Chief Martins Nwaodika, 65; and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi, 41. The suspects are currently in custody at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
According to police authorities, intelligence revealed that the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a proposed ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall in Amuwo Odofin.
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Acting on the information, police operatives sealed off the venue to prevent a breach of peace and protect unsuspecting members of the public from being deceived. The Command said it deployed conventional officers, the Eko Strike Force, and other tactical squads to ensure the event did not hold.
“The suspects are currently in detention and investigation is progressing into their nefarious activities. The outcome of the investigation will be made public, and they will be charged to court accordingly,” said DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, in a statement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh.
The Commissioner warned Lagos residents to be wary of impostors seeking to exploit traditional institutions for selfish purposes. He stressed that such acts are unlawful, violate the statutes of Lagos State, and threaten public order.
He assured that the Command would continue to act decisively against individuals or groups undermining legality and the integrity of the state.
By PRNigeria
