….There Is Nothing Like Obi Of Lagos, Police
Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have nabbed one Engr. Chibuike Azubike, who styled himself as the “Obi of Lagos,” over purported plans to unveil a N1.5 billion palace project and hold an installation ceremony in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.
Engr. Azubike, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North, Imo State, was arrested alongside three others. They are Chief Chibuzor Ani (57), Chief Martins Nwaodika (65) and Ikechukwu Franklin Nnadi (41).
They were accused of parading themselves as traditional rulers and attempting to create a parallel stool strange to Lagos tradition.
The Police operatives were said to have invaded Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, where the elaborate installation was slated to take place on September 13, sealing the venue and arresting the suspects.
According to Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, the action was necessary to protect the integrity of Lagos traditional institutions.
“There is no such title as ‘Obi of Lagos.’ What these suspects attempted was nothing short of impersonation and a threat to public peace,” Jimoh said. “The Command will not tolerate individuals exploiting revered institutions for selfish gain.”
The suspects had planned to showcase the prototype of a “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” valued at N1.5 billion.