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

The leaders, under the banner of the Association of Ezendigbo Na Uzoije, Southern Zone, said Azubike has no ties with their association and does not represent the Igbo community in Lagos.

In a communiqué signed by their President, Eze John Ezebuadi, the Ezeudo of Iba LCDA, they urged 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.

“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 statement read.

On the New Yam and Ofala festivals

The leaders stressed that the new yams and Ofala festivals are reserved for recognised cultural authorities, describing Azubike’s activities as misleading and damaging to the reputation of Ndigbo in Lagos.

They also apologised to the Lagos State Government, the police, and prominent Igbo personalities whose names were allegedly linked to Azubike’s actions.

Reaffirming their commitment to peaceful coexistence, the association pledged to restructure its operations from the local government level to ensure Igbo cultural practices align with the 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.