Police reveal “Obi of Lagos” impostor construction materials supplier, not an engineer as claimed
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Police have discovered that Chibuike Azubike, who planned to install himself as the “Obi of Lagos State” is a construction materials supplier, not an engineer as claimed, and he fraudulently designed his installation to “defraud dignitaries” and other members of the public.
Lagos police on Wednesday arrested Azubike, 65, and three others after fliers announced his planned unveiling of a N1.5 billion palace of a purported Obi Palace at an event scheduled for Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos on September 13.
Lagos Police Command Deputy spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi provided an update in a statement issued on Thursday night that the suspect is not a qualified engineer but a supplier of construction materials to construction companies.
The statement said: “Azubike confessed that he is not a certified engineer as he had claimed, but a mere supplier of construction materials.
“Police investigations revealed that the suspect had announced plans to unveil the prototype of a ₦1.5 billion ‘Palace of Obi of Lagos State’ at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
“The event was designed as a ploy to defraud dignitaries and unsuspecting members of the public ….
“Azubike acted alone, without the backing or recognition of any legitimate chieftaincy authority.
“Members of the public are therefore enjoined to disregard his claims and other misleading publications on social media aimed at causing disaffection among the peace-loving people of Lagos.
“Meanwhile, investigation is ongoing, and all suspects involved will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of the investigation.”
Oluseyi reiterated that the suspect acted alone without the backing of any legitimate traditional authority in Lagos and warned Lagosians to disregard his claims and misleading social media publications.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh said the command will ensure that all suspects are arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigation.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and resist falling prey to similar schemes and stressed that the police remain committed to protecting citizens against criminal deception while sustaining peace and public order.
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Police arrest self-proclaimed ‘Obi of Lagos’, stop illegal coronation ceremony
