‘Obi of Lagos’ Azubuike apologises to Lagos govt, drops title

Azubuike faced backlash for allegedly trying to impose an Igbo tradition on Lagos, a city deeply rooted in Yoruba culture and heritage.

Azubuike published a public apology in a national daily, expressing regret for his actions and pledging to conduct himself in a manner befitting a responsible citizen.

“I, Mr Chibuike Azubuike, hereby tender this unreserved apology to the Oba of Lagos, Federal Government of Nigeria, the government, and the good people of Lagos State over my unguided proposal to hold the New Yam Festival, which was scheduled to take place on Saturday, the 13th of September 2025, at Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos State.

“The caption therein as ‘OBI OF LAGOS’ was a typographical error from the print man,” he wrote.

He added that he was not coerced into cancelling the festival, but chose to do it of his own volition, adding that it was not politically motivated.

“Contrary to insinuations that it is politically motivated, I’m not a politician, and even if I have the intention of joining any political party in the near future, I should join the ruling All Progressives Congress to ensure the state moves forward,” Azubuike added.