Sh*ck As ‘Obi Of Lagos’ Confesses Installation Was Fake, Police Reveal

The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that Chibuike Azubike, a self-proclaimed “Obi of Lagos,” has admitted that his planned installation as a traditional ruler was nothing more than a fraudulent scheme.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi, revealed that the 65-year-old suspect confessed during interrogation that the so-called coronation was deliberately designed to deceive unsuspecting guests and extort money from them.

Azubike was arrested on Wednesday alongside three alleged accomplices while preparing for an unlawful unveiling ceremony. According to the police, the group had also planned to present a prototype of a fictitious N1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at an event scheduled to hold on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.

Investigations further showed that Azubike, who had claimed to be an engineer, was in fact only a supplier of construction materials. “Findings revealed that the principal suspect was never an engineer, contrary to his claims. The entire event was fraudulently arranged as a ploy to swindle unsuspecting individuals of their hard-earned money,” Oluseyi stated.

The police clarified that Azubike had no backing or recognition from any legitimate chieftaincy institution, stressing that the suspect and his accomplices would be charged to court once investigations are concluded. Oluseyi also cautioned residents to disregard misleading narratives about the case, urging vigilance against fraudsters. “The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, advises Lagosians not to fall victim to individuals like Azubike and his gang,” he said.

As at press time, Azubike remained in custody and could not be reached for comment.

The arrest has since sparked heated debates on social media, with some questioning its legitimacy, while others argued that assuming a traditional title without proper authority constitutes a clear violation of the law.

Observers recalled a similar incident in April 2023 when the Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, Frederick Nwajagu, was arrested for unlawfully parading himself as a titled chief in Lagos.