Police arrest 65-year-old man posing as ‘Obi of Lagos’
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man who allegedly paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos.”
He was taken into custody alongside three accomplices after their planned unveiling ceremony was foiled.
The suspects were identified as Engr. Chibuike Azubike, 65, from Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North LGA of Imo State; Chief Chibuzor Ani, 57; Chief Martins Nwaodika, 65; and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi, 41.
They were arrested on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, and are currently in custody at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Babaseyi Oluseyi, Deputy Police spokesperson for the Lagos Command, said the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday, September 13.
“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 statement read.
Oluseyi added that the Command deployed conventional operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical squads to the venue to ensure the event did not hold and to maintain public order.
Olohundare Jimoh, Police Commissioner, described the suspects’ actions as an unlawful attempt to exploit cultural institutions for selfish gain.
“In furtherance of this preventive action, the Command deployed adequate manpower, including conventional police operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical squads, to the premises earmarked for the ceremony.
“Their presence was to guarantee that the event did not hold as planned and to ensure that public order and peace within the area were not compromised.”
“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, warns members of the public to remain vigilant against impostors and criminal elements who attempt to exploit revered cultural and traditional institutions for selfish gains,” the statement said.
Jimoh stressed that such actions are contrary to Lagos State statutes and capable of disturbing public peace.
He assured that the suspects will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
“The Command will continue to enforce the law firmly and decisively against any individual or group engaging in acts that undermine legality, public order, and the integrity of the state,” the statement added.
