Police arrest self-proclaimed ‘Obi of Lagos’, stop illegal coronation ceremony
By Jeffrey Agbo
Lagos State Police Command has apprehended 65-year-old Chibuike Azubike for allegedly declaring himself the “Obi of Lagos.”
Azubike, who hails from Obodoukwu in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was arrested on Saturday along with three associates — Chibuzor Ani, 57; Martins Nwaodika, 65; and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi, 41.
According to a statement issued by Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi, the group was preparing to launch a model of a proposed N1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on September 13 in the Amuwo Odofin area.
Acting on intelligence, police officers sealed off the venue to prevent the planned coronation and to shield the public from what authorities described as a misleading activity.
“In furtherance of this preventive action, the Command deployed adequate manpower, including conventional police operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical squads, to the premises earmarked for the ceremony,” the statement noted.
“Their presence was to guarantee that the event did not hold as planned and to ensure that public order and peace within the area were not compromised.”
Oluseyi confirmed that the suspects are being held at the state command headquarters in Ikeja and will be arraigned in court after investigations are completed.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh cautioned Lagosians to remain alert, stressing that actions of this nature are illegal and threaten public stability.
“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,” Jimoh warned.
