The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a self-proclaimed traditional ruler, Chibuike Azubike, who styled himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” along with three accomplices, over an alleged plan to stage an unlawful installation ceremony in Amuwo Odofin.
In a statement on Wednesday, the command’s deputy spokesperson, Babaseyi Oluseyi, confirmed that the event venue—where the unveiling of a prototype of a proposed palace was to be held—has been sealed off to prevent the gathering.
Babaseyi said, “The Lagos State Police Command today, Wednesday, September 10, 2025, successfully arrested a self-acclaimed traditional ruler who paraded himself as the ‘Obi of Lagos’ along with three accomplices, thereby foiling their attempt to mislead the public through an unlawful installation ceremony.”
The police identified the 65-year-old suspect as an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom, Ideato North LGA of Imo State. He 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,” now being held at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja.
According to the police, “Intelligence available to the Command indicated that the group had finalised arrangements to unveil a prototype of a purported N1.5 billion ‘Palace of Obi of Lagos State’ on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin. Acting on this information, the police promptly sealed off the venue in order to forestall any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled.”
The deputy spokesperson added that tactical teams, including the Eko Strike Force, were deployed to ensure the planned event did not hold and to maintain public order in the area.
He further disclosed that investigations are ongoing into what he described as “nefarious activities,” assuring that “the outcome of the investigation will be made public and that the suspects will be charged to court accordingly.”
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, warned Lagosians to beware of impostors attempting to exploit cultural and traditional institutions for selfish ends. He stressed that such actions violate state laws and threaten public peace.
The command vowed to continue enforcing the law firmly and decisively against individuals or groups engaging in activities that undermine legality, public order, and the integrity of Lagos State.
