LAGOS: The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four men over an alleged plot to stage the unlawful installation of one Engr. Chibuike Azubike as the “Obi of Lagos.”
Azubike, 65, from Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was arrested alongside three associates: Chief Chibuzor Ani, 57; Chief Martins Nwaodika, 65; and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi, 41. All are currently being held at the State Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi B. Oluseyi, said intelligence reports indicated that the group planned to unveil a prototype of a proposed ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on September 13, 2025.
“The purported ceremony was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and exploit traditional institutions,” Oluseyi said.
He explained that operatives, including members of the Eko Strike Force and other tactical squads, sealed off the venue to forestall any breach of peace and ensure the event did not hold.
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with plans to charge them to court.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, urged Lagos residents to beware of impostors seeking to exploit cultural institutions for selfish purposes. He stressed that such actions are unlawful, undermine public order, and will be met with decisive enforcement.
“The Command will continue to enforce the law firmly against any individual or group engaging in acts that threaten legality, peace, and the integrity of the state,” Jimoh said.
