Southern Igbo Leaders Disown Azubike, Reject “Obi of Lagos” Claim

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

Operating under the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, the leaders clarified that Azubike is neither a member of their body nor a representative of the Igbo community in Lagos.

In a communiqué signed by the group’s President, Eze John Ezebuadi, the Ezeudo of Iba LCDA, the association urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, and the public to disregard Azubike’s claims, including reports of a ₦1.5 billion fundraising initiative linked to his activities.

“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,” the communiqué stated.

The leaders emphasized that traditional cultural rites such as the **new yam festival** and **Ofala festival** are reserved for recognised Igbo royal fathers. They described Azubike’s actions as misleading and damaging to the reputation of the Igbo community in Lagos.

They also apologised to the Lagos State Government, security agencies, and prominent Igbo dignitaries whose names were reportedly associated with Azubike’s activities without consent.

Reiterating their commitment to peaceful coexistence, the association announced plans for a **comprehensive restructuring** of its operations, beginning at the local government level, to align Igbo cultural practices with the values and traditions of their host communities.

“We will no longer tolerate actions that offend our hosts or tarnish the image of Ndigbo. The days of entertaining such unscrupulous claims are gone. Anyone engaging in acts that undermine our community or misrepresent our culture will be held accountable,” the communiqué added.