The scheduled arraignment of self-proclaimed ‘Obi of Lagos,’ Chibuike Azubuike, and three others was stalled on Monday at the Lagos State High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square, following the absence of one of the defendants.
Azubuike, along with Chief Martins Nwaodika, Chibuzor Ani, and Dr Sunday Udeh, is facing a three-count charge filed by the Lagos State Government. The charges border on conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and the unlawful creation of a chieftaincy title.
The defendants are alleged to have, between August 2025 and September 13, 2025, in the Ikotun area of Lagos, unlawfully conferred and paraded titles including ‘Obi Ndigbo Lagos State’ and ‘Dike Oha Ndigbo Lagos State’ without legal authority.
According to the prosecution, the actions contravened Sections 411 and 34 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
When the matter came up before Justice Abdul-Raheem Muyideen, the fourth defendant, Dr. Udeh, was not present in court. His absence led to the postponement of the arraignment.
State counsel B.T. Adaramola confirmed the prosecution was ready to proceed, but defense counsel Charles Onyaka, who appeared for both Nwaodika and Udeh, appealed for an adjournment, citing Udeh’s health and age.
“He is 77 years old and missed the last hearing due to health issues. I spoke to him this morning and he assured me he was on his way,” Onyaka explained.
“I respectfully seek the court’s indulgence for one final adjournment. I undertake to produce him on the next date.”
Lawyers for the other defendants — Moses Apasogu for Azubuike and Chris Obiaka for Ani — were present and expressed concern over repeated delays.
Obiaka suggested the prosecution amend the charge to allow the arraignment of the present defendants so the matter can proceed without further hindrance.
Justice Muyideen, while acknowledging the delay, ordered that the first to third defendants remain in police custody and adjourned the matter to October 31, 2025, for arraignment.
The defendants were arrested in connection with a controversial coronation announcement. Azubuike was said to have declared himself the “Obi of Lagos” and announced plans for the inauguration of a N1.5 billion palace at Apple Hall, Amuwo Odofin, scheduled for September 13, 2025 — a move the Lagos State Police Command described as fraudulent.
The police said the titles and coronation were unauthorized and potentially disruptive, prompting their swift intervention and arrests.
