Police Arrest Self-Proclaimed ‘Obi of Lagos’ and 3 Accomplices, Foil Illegal Ceremony
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man who paraded himself as the “Obi of Lagos” alongside three alleged accomplices, successfully preventing a planned unlawful installation ceremony.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the principal suspect, Engr. Chibuike Azubike, 65, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was taken into custody.
He was arrested with Chief Chibuzor Ani, 57; Chief Martins Nwaodika, 65; and Mr. Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi, 41. All four are currently being detained at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Intelligence reports indicated that the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, 13 September, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.
Acting on this information, officers sealed off the venue in order to forestall any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled.
The Command confirmed that it deployed conventional operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical units to the area to ensure that the ceremony did not take place.
Police authorities stated that investigation into the suspects’ activities is ongoing and that the outcome will be made public. The four will be charged to court upon completion of inquiries.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, urged members of the public to be cautious of impostors seeking to exploit revered cultural and traditional institutions for personal gain. He stressed that such actions are unlawful, capable of disturbing public peace, and contrary to the statutes of Lagos State.
“The Command will continue to enforce the law firmly and decisively against any individual or group engaging in acts that undermine legality, public order, and the integrity of the State,” the statement read.
