Photo File:  Nigeria’s Police Officers

In a dramatic crackdown on an alleged cultural scam, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, for parading himself as the self-styled “Obi of Lagos.”

Azubike, alongside three alleged accomplices — Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41) — was picked up in Ikeja while reportedly planning an elaborate “installation” ceremony.

According to the police, the group had set sights on unveiling a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at the Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Security operatives swiftly sealed off the venue to avert what they described as public deception and possible unrest.

Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, said tactical teams, including the Eko Strike Force, swooped in to foil the event. “We are investigating and the suspects will be charged to court once the process is concluded,” Jimoh said.

The Commissioner warned Lagosians to beware of impostors exploiting traditional and cultural institutions, calling such actions “illegal and capable of disturbing public peace.”

This isn’t the first time the command has moved against self-acclaimed traditional leaders. On April 1, 2023, Frederick Nwajagu, the “Eze Ndigbo” of Ajao Estate, was similarly arrested for allegedly parading himself unlawfully as a titled chief in Lagos.

The latest arrest has stoked fresh conversations on social media, where youths have traded banters over Azubike’s audacious plan to crown himself “Obi of Lagos.”