The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man for allegedly parading himself unlawfully as the “Obi of Lagos” during an installation ceremony.
Deputy spokesperson of the command, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Wednesday, disclosing that the suspect, an indigene of Obodoukwu Ancient Kingdom in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended alongside three others aged 41, 51, and 65.
According to the police, intelligence reports revealed that the group had planned to unveil a prototype of a purported ₦1.5 billion “Palace of Obi of Lagos State” on Saturday at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin.
“Acting on the information, the police sealed off the venue to prevent a breach of peace and protect unsuspecting members of the public from being deceived. Adequate personnel, including conventional operatives, the Eko Strike Force, and other tactical squads, were deployed to ensure that the event did not proceed,” the statement said.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue. Authorities assured that they will be prosecuted once inquiries are concluded.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, warned members of the public to remain vigilant against impostors seeking to exploit revered cultural and traditional institutions.
“Such actions are unlawful, contrary to the statutes of Lagos State, and capable of disrupting public order. The Command will continue to enforce the law decisively against any individual or group engaged in acts that undermine legality and the integrity of the state,” the CP said.
