Dare Babalola
Police have discovered that Chibuike Azubike, who planned to install himself as the “Obi of Lagos State” is a construction materials supplier, not an engineer as claimed, and he fraudulently designed his installation to “defraud dignitaries” and other members of the public.
The command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.
Recall that 65-year-old Azubike was arrested while parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos.” He was apprehended on Wednesday with three alleged accomplices during preparations for an unlawful unveiling ceremony.
According to the police, the group had planned to launch a prototype of a purported N1.5bn “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.
However, Oluseyi said Azubike confessed that the planned installation was a scheme to defraud unsuspecting participants.
The statement said, “Azubike confessed that he is not a certified engineer as he had claimed, but a mere supplier of construction materials.
“Police investigations revealed that the suspect had announced plans to unveil the prototype of a ₦1.5 billion ‘Palace of Obi of Lagos State’ at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
“The event was designed as a ploy to defraud dignitaries and unsuspecting members of the public.
“Azubike 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.”
Oluseyi reiterated that the suspect acted alone without the backing of any legitimate traditional authority in Lagos and warned Lagosians to disregard his claims and misleading social media publications.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh said the command will ensure that all suspects are arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigation.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and resist falling prey to similar schemes and stressed that the police remain committed to protecting citizens against criminal deception while sustaining peace and public order.
