Police Arrest “Obi of Lagos,” Halt Planned ₦1.5 Billion Palace Unveiling in Festac

By Prince O. D. Agbedeyi PhD
Date: September 11, 2025

In a dramatic security operation, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Chibuike Azubike, who allegedly paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos.” Azubike was picked up along with three alleged accomplices while attempting to host an unlawful unveiling ceremony in Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin.

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🏛️ Attempted Palace Unveiling Thwarted

According to police intelligence, the suspects had concluded elaborate plans to unveil a ₦1.5 billion prototype “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.

Acting swiftly, police operatives moved in and sealed off the venue to prevent a potential breach of peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled into supporting the illegitimate event.

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👮 Arrested Suspects

In addition to Azubike, the arrested suspects were identified as:

• Chief Chibuzor Ani (57)

• Chief Martins Nwaodika (65)

• Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41)

They are currently being detained at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, as investigations continue.

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🚨 Police Statement

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babasuyi Oluseyi, confirmed the arrests and noted that adequate manpower — including conventional officers, the Eko Strike Force, and other tactical squads — was deployed to ensure that the planned unveiling did not hold.

He said:

“The Command acted on credible intelligence to prevent a breach of public peace. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.”

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⚠️ Public Warning

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, used the opportunity to warn Lagosians and the general public to be wary of impostors exploiting cultural and traditional institutions for selfish or financial gain.

“Such unlawful acts are capable of disturbing public order and will be met with firm enforcement of the law,” the CP stated.

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🔍 Broader Context

This arrest comes amid rising concerns over impersonation and abuse of traditional titles across Nigeria. Authorities have repeatedly warned that individuals falsely claiming royal titles risk criminal prosecution, as such acts could trigger inter-communal disputes and undermine genuine cultural institutions.

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Author: Prince O. D. Agbedeyi PhD
Publisher: Global Egberi Media International

🌐 Website: https://globalegberi.blogspot.com
📧 Email: globalegberimedia@gmail.com
📞 Nigeria: +234 813 490 2214

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🏷️ Tags:

#LagosNews #ObiOfLagos #PoliceArrest #FestacTown #PublicPeace #GlobalEgberi