Police arrest ‘Obi of Lagos’, foil N1.5bn palace unveiling plot

The operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a self-acclaimed traditional ruler parading himself as the ‘Obi of Lagos’ during an unauthorised installation ceremony.

The command’s deputy spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

According to Oluseyi, the 65-year-old suspect — an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State — was arrested alongside three accomplices, aged 41, 51, and 65.

Oluseyi revealed that intelligence reports indicated the group had concluded plans to unveil a prototype of a purported N1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.

Customs seizes illicit drugs, contraband worth N13bn at One Port

“Acting on the information, the police promptly sealed off the venue to prevent any breach of the peace and to protect unsuspecting members of the public from being misled,” Oluseyi said.

He added that the command deployed conventional operatives, Eko Strike Force teams, and other tactical squads to ensure the event did not hold and that public order was maintained.

Oluseyi further disclosed that the suspects are currently in detention, with investigations ongoing.

“The outcome of the investigation will be made public, and the suspects will be charged to court accordingly,” the police spokesman added.

The Star