Police arrest man parading himself as “Obi of Lagos”

The police in Lagos have arrested a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, for allegedly parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos”.

According to a statement by the police, Azubuike was arrested with three other accomplices as they attempted to organise a fundraising ceremony and an “unlawful installation”.

Their arrest follows online protests by individuals and groups who expressed dismay at the development.

According to the Lagos State Police Command, “The principal suspect, Engr. Chibuike Azubike ‘m’, aged 65 years, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom, Ideato North LGA of Imo State, was arrested alongside three co-conspirators: Chief Chibuzor Ani ‘m’, aged 57 years; Chief Martins Nwaodika ‘m’, aged 65 years; and Mr Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi ‘m’, aged 41 years.”

All four suspects are currently being held at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja.

The four men were alleged to have concluded arrangements to “unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.”

Police said the venue of the proposed event has been sealed off. Police operatives and other law enforcement teams have also been deployed to the venue to prevent a breakdown of law and order, a police statement said.

On April 1, 2023, one Frederick Nwajagu, was also arrested for unlawfully parading himself as the purported Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate in Lagos.

According to the police, the “Obi of Lagos” and his accomplices will appear in court after investigations are concluded.