Igbo Traditional Leaders Reject Self-Proclaimed ‘Obi Ndigbo Lagos’

• Igbo traditional rulers and leaders from 12 South-West and South-South states have distanced themselves from Mr. Chibuike Azubike.
• Azubike claimed the title “Obi Ndigbo Lagos” and announced plans for an Ofala festival on September 13.
• The leaders, part of the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, stated that Azubike is not affiliated with their group.

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

The leaders, speaking under the umbrella of the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, clarified that Azubike has no affiliation with their group and does not represent the Igbo community in Lagos.

In a statement signed by their President, Eze John Ezebuadi, the Ezeudo of Iba LCDA, they called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, and the public to ignore Azubike’s claims, including a reported ₦1.5 billion fundraising initiative.

“We hereby affirm that Mr. Azubike is not a member of our Association and does not speak for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State. His assertions are unfounded and disrespectful to our organisation,” the statement read.

On the New Yam and Ofala festivals

The group emphasized that the observance of new yam and Ofala festivals is strictly reserved for recognized cultural authorities. They described Azubike’s actions as misleading and potentially harmful to the reputation of Ndigbo in Lagos.

They also issued apologies to the Lagos State Government, law enforcement agencies, and prominent Igbo figures whose names were allegedly associated with Azubike’s activities.

Reiterating their dedication to harmonious relations, the association said it would restructure its operations down to the local government level to ensure Igbo cultural practices are consistent with the traditions of host communities.

“We will no longer tolerate actions that disrespect our hosts or damage the image of Ndigbo. The era of entertaining such unfounded claims is over. Those who attempt to misrepresent our community or distort our culture will face consequences,” the communiqué concluded.