The self-acclaimed Obi of Lagos, Chibuike Azubike, 65, has told police investigators that he acted out of ignorance and not in bad faith.

Azubuike, arrested by operatives of the Lagos Police Command for pronouncing himself as the Obi of Lagos and declaring a fundraiser for a N1.5b palace in Amuwo Odofin, was alleged to have breached the Lagos State Chieftaincy law.

The Nation reports that his proclamation sparked criticism across social media platforms with many calling for his arrest and prosecution for incitement.

But the man who claimed to be an engineer, it was gathered, revealed that his motive was not to spite nor denigrate any other ethnic nationality.

According to him, the initiative was conceived as a way to unite the Igbo community in Lagos, adding that he extended invitations to government officials and prominent personalities, believing the event would give legitimacy to his activities.

“I didn’t know the implications of my actions or that there are laws guiding chieftaincy and related affairs in Lagos State. I was ignorant that one must obtain approval from the local government and the chieftaincy ministry,” he was quoted as saying.

Police investigations, however, revealed that Azubike was neither an engineer, as he claimed, nor backed by any legitimate traditional authority. Instead, findings showed that he had only supplied building materials to construction companies in the past, and had been using the “engineer” title falsely.

The unveiling of the so-called palace, police said, was a fraudulent scheme designed to swindle unsuspecting Nigerians of their hard-earned money under the guise of traditional leadership.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, earlier dismissed Azubike’s claims of legitimacy, describing him as an impostor who acted alone.

He urged Lagosians to disregard publications and social media messages linked to the suspect, which were aimed at misleading the public and causing disaffection.(The Nation)