Police Arrest “Obi of Lagos,” Halt Planned ₦1.5b Palace Unveiling in Festac
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, who allegedly paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos.”
He was picked up alongside three accomplices while attempting to stage an unlawful unveiling ceremony in Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin.
According to the Command, intelligence revealed that the group had concluded plans 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.
Acting swiftly on the information, operatives sealed off the venue to prevent a breach of peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled.
The suspects, identified as Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41), were arrested alongside Azubike and are currently being held at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Police spokesperson, DSP Babasuyi Oluseyi, said adequate manpower was deployed, including conventional officers, Eko Strike Force, and other tactical squads, to ensure that the planned event did not hold.
He added that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has warned the public against falling prey to impostors who exploit cultural and traditional institutions for selfish gain.
He stressed that such acts are unlawful, capable of disturbing public peace, and will be met with firm enforcement of the law.
