Igbo Leaders disown self proclaimed “Obi of Lagos”

Igbo traditional rulers and community leaders from 12 states across the South-West and South-South have publicly disowned Mr. Chibuike Azubike, who recently styled himself “Obi Ndigbo Lagos” and announced plans to host an Ofala festival on September 13.

The leaders, under the platform of the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, said Azubike has no affiliation with their body and cannot speak for the Igbo population in Lagos.

In a communiqué signed by their president, Eze John Ezebuadi, Ezeudo of Iba LCDA, they called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, and the general public to ignore Azubike’s claims and his reported N1.5 billion palace fundraising project.

“Mr. Azubike is not a member of our Association, neither does he represent Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State. His claims are false and a direct insult to the integrity of our organisation,” the communiqué stated.

They stressed that the New Yam and Ofala festivals are sacred cultural events reserved for properly recognised traditional authorities and warned that Azubike’s activities could tarnish the image of Ndigbo in Lagos.

The group further apologised to the Lagos State Government, security agencies, and respected Igbo figures whose names were allegedly linked to Azubike’s plans.

Pledging to strengthen their internal structures, the association said it would reorganise its operations at the local government level to ensure that Igbo traditions are practised in harmony with the customs of their host communities.

“We will no longer allow individuals to bring disrepute to our people or strain relations with our hosts. Anyone who misrepresents our culture or exploits the name of Ndigbo for selfish reasons will be held accountable,” the statement concluded.