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By Oscar Okhifo
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, who styled himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” over plans to unveil a ₦1.5 billion palace project and hold an installation ceremony in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.
Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North, Imo State, was picked up alongside three others , Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65) and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).
They were accused of parading themselves as traditional rulers and attempting to create a parallel stool alien to Lagos tradition.
Police operatives stormed Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, where the elaborate installation was billed to take place on September 13, sealing the venue and arresting the suspects.
According to Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, the action was necessary to protect the integrity of Lagos traditional institutions.
“There is no such title as ‘Obi of Lagos.’ What these suspects attempted was nothing short of impersonation and a threat to public peace,” Jimoh said. “The Command will not tolerate individuals exploiting revered institutions for selfish gain.”
The suspects had planned to showcase the prototype of a “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” valued at ₦1.5 billion.
Legal experts also weighed in, stressing that the act falls squarely under existing statutes.
“Section 23 of the Obas and Chiefs Law criminalises unlawful installation of chiefs, while Section 33 forbids creating titles outside due process,” said constitutional lawyer, Barr. Chinedu Obiora. “If convicted, they could face jail terms or fines, and the government is already considering stiffer sanctions.”
Eyewitnesses at the sealed venue described the police operation as swift and decisive.
“We were shocked when policemen surrounded the hall,” said Mrs. Amaka Okafor, a trader nearby. “Some people had already started arriving for the event, but everything ended abruptly once the officers moved in.”
Leaders of the Igbo community in Lagos also distanced themselves from the suspects.
“This action does not represent Ndigbo in Lagos,” said Chief Uche Ani, a prominent member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. “We respect the traditions of Lagos and will not support any attempt to create confusion with fake titles.”
Similar controversies have erupted elsewhere. In Akure, during the era of late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, security operatives foiled a comparable attempt at installing a parallel ruler. Only recently in Ghana, police cracked down on an alleged attempt by some Igbo leaders to establish a traditional stool.
These incidents have often been met with stiff resistance outside Igbo-speaking states.
All eyes are now on Lagos to see how the matter will be resolved, as the case touches on sensitive questions of culture, legality, and coexistence in Nigeria’s most diverse city.
The police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.