Police Arrest Man Claiming to Be ‘Obi of Lagos’, Disrupt Alleged Coronation

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, for allegedly presenting himself as the “Obi of Lagos” and attempting to stage a coronation ceremony.

Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu in Ideato North LGA of Imo State, was picked up alongside three alleged accomplices — Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).

The suspects were apprehended while preparing to unveil a proposed ₦1.5bn “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on September 13, 2025. Police said the plan was foiled to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.

Confirming the development in a statement on Wednesday, Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh disclosed that tactical units, including the Eko Strike Force, sealed the venue and arrested the suspects. He warned Lagos residents to be cautious of impostors exploiting traditional institutions for personal gain.

“These acts are illegal and capable of disturbing public peace. The suspects will face prosecution once investigations are concluded,” Jimoh said.

The development has sparked heated conversations online, with youths trading ethnic banters over the attempted installation.

This is not the first time police in Lagos have clamped down on similar cases. In April 2023, officers arrested Frederick Nwajagu, the self-styled “Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate,” for unlawfully parading himself as a traditional ruler.