The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man and his accomplices for allegedly attempting to parade him as the “Obi of Lagos” during an unauthorised installation exercise.
The suspects, identified as Engr. Chibuike Azubike (65), Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65), and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41), were apprehended on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, disclosed in a statement that the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives sealed off the venue to prevent a breach of public peace and to protect unsuspecting residents from being deceived,” Oluseyi said.
Heavy Security Deployment
The police deployed a strong presence, including conventional officers, the Eko Strike Force, and other tactical units, to completely disrupt the planned event. The suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, warned the public against falling victim to impostors exploiting traditional and cultural institutions for personal gain.
“Such unlawful acts are not only criminal but also a direct affront to the statutes of Lagos State and a threat to societal peace. The command will not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law on anyone found undermining legality, order, and the integrity of our state,” the CP said.
Recurring Disputes Over Unrecognised Titles
Disputes over unrecognised traditional titles have been a recurring issue in Lagos. By law, the state does not recognise the Eze Ndigbo title often claimed by Igbo community leaders.
Under the Obas and Chiefs Law (2015), parading oneself as an Eze Ndigbo without state recognition is punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment.
Earlier, the Lagos State Government arraigned Frederick Nkemdilim Nwajago, the self-styled Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, on terrorism-related charges for parading himself as a traditional ruler without state approval.
The South East Council of Traditional Rulers has also cautioned against using such titles outside Igboland.
Ongoing Reforms in Traditional Governance
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government is reviewing the Obas and Chiefs Law to modernise traditional governance and curb abuses of chieftaincy titles.
Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), said in June that the reforms aim to strengthen respect for recognised traditional rulers while aligning the institution with modern governance structures.
