Self-Styled “Obi of Lagos” Arrested Over Alleged ₦1.5 Billion Palace Scam

Authorities in Lagos have apprehended a man identified as Chibuike Azubike, 65, for allegedly attempting to defraud members of the public by falsely presenting himself as the “Obi of Lagos” and planning the unveiling of a fictitious ₦1.5 billion palace.

According to a statement released by the Lagos State Police Command, Azubike and three others were arrested following intelligence reports linking them to a scheme aimed at extorting unsuspecting individuals through a fake royal event scheduled to take place at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, on Saturday, September 13.

Investigations revealed that Azubike had falsely claimed to be a certified engineer, while he is, in fact, only a supplier of construction materials.

This misrepresentation, police say, was part of a broader plan to gain credibility and mislead the public into believing in his assumed royal status.

The planned unveiling ceremony was allegedly designed to attract financial contributions from well-meaning Nigerians under the pretense of supporting a cultural heritage project — a palace he claimed would serve as the seat of the so-called “Obi of Lagos State.”

Further probing by the authorities confirmed that the suspect has no affiliation with any recognized traditional institution or chieftaincy body in Lagos. The police have urged the public to disregard his claims and to be cautious of similar attempts by individuals looking to exploit public trust through fabricated titles and ceremonies.

“The suspect operated independently and without any form of traditional or legal backing. His actions were purely aimed at misleading the public for personal gain,” the police noted.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, in his remarks, warned Lagos residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities. He reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to ensuring law and order, stressing that justice will be served once the investigation is completed.

The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.

Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babasuyi B. Oluseyi, signed off the update on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.