LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Police Command has detained a 65-year-old man and three accomplices for unlawfully parading himself as the “Obi of Lagos” during what authorities described as an unauthorised installation scheme.
The suspects were apprehended on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, following intelligence that the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, this weekend.
DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, the command’s deputy spokesperson, confirmed the arrests in a statement.
“The 65-year-old principal suspect, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo, was apprehended alongside three co-conspirators of ages 41, 51 and 65,” he said.
Police operatives moved quickly to seal off the venue to prevent what they described as a potential breach of the peace and to protect the public from being misled.
“Acting on the information, the police promptly sealed off the venue in order to forestall any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled,” Oluseyi explained.
The command deployed officers from multiple units, including the Eko Strike Force and other tactical squads, to ensure the event did not proceed.
“Their presence was to guarantee that the event did not hold as planned and to ensure that public order and peace within the area were not compromised,” he added.
The suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
“The outcome of the investigation will be made public, and they will be charged to court accordingly,” the police spokesperson said.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh urged Lagos residents to remain vigilant against individuals attempting to exploit cultural institutions for personal gain.
“CP Jimoh warns members of the public to remain vigilant against impostors and criminal elements who attempt to exploit revered cultural and traditional institutions for selfish gains,” Oluseyi stated on his behalf.
The commissioner further emphasised that such actions contravene Lagos State law and threaten public order.
“The commissioner reiterates that such actions are unlawful, contrary to the statutes of Lagos State, and capable of breaching the peace of the society,” he said.
Police authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and safeguarding the integrity of traditional and cultural institutions across the state.
