Igbo traditional rulers and community leaders from 12 South-West and South-South states have distanced themselves from Mr. Chibuike Azubike after he declared himself “Obi Ndigbo Lagos” and announced plans to stage an Ofala festival on September 13.
Operating under the umbrella of the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, the leaders issued a communiqué on Thursday signed by their president, Eze John Ezebuadi, the Ezeudo of Iba LCDA, stressing that Azubike has no authority to speak for Ndigbo in Lagos.
The clarification followed Azubike’s arrest on Wednesday, alongside three others, after publicising plans for the unveiling of a ₦1.5 billion “Obi of Lagos Palace.”
According to Lagos Command’s Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Babasaye Oluseyi, preliminary investigations revealed that the event was a scheme designed to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
In their communiqué, the Igbo leaders dismissed Azubike’s claims as fraudulent and damaging:
“We categorically state that Mr. Azubike is neither a member of our Association nor does he represent Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State. His claims are baseless and an affront to the dignity of our organisation.”
They further condemned Azubike’s fundraising drive, emphasising that new yam and Ofala festivals remain the preserve of recognised cultural authorities.
The association also apologised to the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, security agencies, and Igbo dignitaries whose names were falsely linked to Azubike’s activities.
Looking ahead, the group pledged to tighten its internal structures from the local government level upwards to protect Igbo culture and prevent misrepresentation.
“We will no longer tolerate actions that offend our hosts or tarnish the image of Ndigbo. Anyone engaging in acts that undermine our community or misrepresent our culture will be held accountable,” the communiqué concluded.