Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a man who allegedly posed as the “Obi of Lagos,” along with three others, for attempting to conduct an illegal installation ceremony.
According to police spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi, the main suspect, 65-year-old Engr. Chibuike Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North LGA of Imo State, was arrested in connection with the planned coronation.
Three alleged accomplices, Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41) were also taken into custody.
All four are currently being held at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Authorities say the group had planned to unveil a ₦1.5 billion “Palace of the Obi of Lagos State” during a ceremony scheduled for Saturday, September 13, at Apple Hall in Amuwo Odofin.
Police operatives, however, disrupted the event and sealed off the venue to prevent any breach of public peace.
“The police promptly sealed off the venue in order to forestall any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled,” the statement read.
An investigation is ongoing into the group’s activities and authorities have promised to charge the suspects to court once inquiries are complete.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, issued a stern warning to the public, advising against falling for impersonators seeking to exploit traditional institutions for personal or financial gain.
He emphasized that such acts violate state laws and have the potential to disrupt societal harmony.
“The Command will continue to enforce the law firmly and decisively against any individual or group engaging in acts that undermine legality, public order, and the integrity of the state,” the police assured.
