Igbo traditional rulers and leaders from 12 South-West and South-South states have disowned Chibuike Azubike, who claimed the title of “Obi Ndigbo Lagos” and announced plans to hold an Ofala festival.
Speaking under the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, the leaders stated that Azubike is neither a member of their association nor a representative of the Igbo community in Lagos.
The leaders, led by President Eze John Ezebuadi, described Azubike’s claims as baseless and an affront to their organisation’s dignity.
They cautioned Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, and the public to disregard Azubike’s claims, including his reported ₦1.5 billion fundraising project.
The association emphasized that the new yam and Ofala festivals are reserved for recognised cultural leaders and that Azubike’s actions are misleading and damaging to the Igbo community’s reputation in Lagos.
The association apologized to the Lagos State Government, the police, and Igbo dignitaries whose names were reportedly linked to Azubike’s activities.
They vowed to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of their structures to ensure that Igbo cultural practices align with the values and traditions of their host states, and to prevent actions that may tarnish the image of Ndigbo.
