Police Arrest Self-Proclaimed “Obi of Lagos,” Foil N1.5bn Fake Palace Unveiling

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, who allegedly paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” along with three accomplices, in a dramatic move that foiled an unlawful installation ceremony.

According to a statement issued by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babas?yi B. Oluseyi, the suspects were apprehended on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, following credible intelligence reports. Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was arrested alongside Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41). All four are currently in custody at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja.

Police investigations revealed that the group had concluded plans 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 intelligence, the Command swiftly sealed off the venue and deployed tactical operatives to ensure that the event did not hold.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, ordered the deployment of conventional officers, Eko Strike Force units, and other tactical squads to the area to maintain public peace and prevent unsuspecting members of the public from being deceived.

“The suspects are currently in detention and investigations are ongoing. They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation,” DSP Oluseyi said.

CP Jimoh also used the opportunity to caution Lagosians against impostors and criminal elements seeking to exploit the state’s revered cultural and traditional institutions. He stressed that such acts are unlawful, undermine the integrity of the state, and pose a potential threat to public peace.

The foiled attempt has sparked conversations across Lagos, where traditional titles are highly revered and closely tied to cultural identity. Security analysts say the police intervention may have prevented large-scale public confusion and possible unrest.