The Lagos State Police Command has described the planned coronation of 65-year-old Chibuike Azubike, who styled himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” as a fraudulent scheme.
Azubike was arrested on Wednesday alongside three other suspects after announcing plans to unveil a N1.5 billion “Obi of Lagos Palace” on Saturday, September 13, at Apple Hall in the Amuwo Odofin area.
In a statement on Thursday, the command’s Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babasaye Oluseyi, said preliminary investigations showed the event was a plot to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
“Further findings revealed that the planned unveiling of the ‘Obi of Lagos Palace’ was fraudulently designed as a ploy to swindle unsuspecting personalities and other Nigerians of their hard-earned money under the guise of the unveiling of a ₦1.5 billion palace of Obi of Lagos State.
“It was also established that the principal suspect 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,” the statement read.
Police disclosed that Azubike confessed he was not a certified engineer but only a supplier of building materials.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh warned residents to be vigilant and assured that the command would clamp down on fraudsters.
“We enjoin the people of Lagos not to fall prey to fraudsters like Chibuike Azubike and his gang. The command remains committed to ensuring peace, security, and public order while protecting citizens against all forms of criminal deception,” Jimoh stated.
According to the command, operatives, including the Eko Strike Force and tactical squads, were deployed to the venue to stop the event and maintain public peace.
Authorities have previously clamped down on individuals parading themselves as traditional rulers in Lagos. In April 2023, Frederick Nwajagu, the self-styled Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, was arrested after a viral video showed him threatening to invite IPOB members to Lagos to protect Igbo properties.