The Lagos State Police Command has taken a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, into custody for allegedly claiming to be the “Obi of Lagos.”
He was arrested along with three suspected accomplices while attempting to hold an unauthorized coronation ceremony.
The arrest follows rising ethnic tensions, especially among youths on social media, who have been trading comments and jokes about Azubike’s proposed installation.
Azubike, reportedly from the Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was detained alongside Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).
The four are currently being held at the command headquarters in Ikeja.
According to the police in a statement shared on X.com on Wednesday, the group had planned to unveil a prototype of a purported N1.5bn “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Apple Hall in Amuwo Odofin.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, said tactical teams, including the Eko Strike Force, were deployed to the location to maintain law and order.
He added that investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged in court once concluded.
Jimoh further warned residents to be vigilant against impostors exploiting cultural and traditional institutions, stressing that such acts are illegal and capable of disturbing public peace.
This is not the first time that the police would make such arrest.
Notably, on April 1, 2023, Frederick Nwajagu, the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, was similarly arrested for unlawfully parading himself as a titled chief in Lagos.