Operatives of the Tiger Base division of the Imo State Police Command have reportedly arrested Chris Obasi, one of the contenders to the Eze royal stool of Eziama Ikeduru autonomous community.
According to Punch, the arrest occurred around 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Obasi’s residence in Graceland Estate, Ajah, Lagos. His sister, Adaeze Francis, confirmed the development, alleging that the arrest was tied to the long-standing kingship dispute between Obasi and his cousin. She accused the rival faction of employing various tactics to block state recognition of Obasi as the rightful traditional ruler.
“This is all about the kingship tussle,” Adaeze said. “My brother is the rightful heir. Our late father was the former king, and after his one-year memorial, my brother was crowned. Since then, his cousin has been trying to take the crown.”
She added that Obasi was previously dragged to a magistrate court over the dispute. The case, initially set for Friday, was adjourned to May 27, 2025, following the death of the presiding magistrate.
Another family member, who requested anonymity, claimed Obasi’s cousin leveraged political influence to obtain the staff of office from the state governor and pass it to his elder brother, despite Obasi being crowned in line with tradition.
“The former king died four years ago. After his memorial, Mr. Obasi was crowned, but his cousin used political connections to get the governor to recognize someone else,” the source said.
The source also revealed that three other individuals—Chukwunonso Okemmadu, Soronnadi Ohiri, and Agrey Oparaugo—were arrested in connection with the dispute and are currently being held alongside Obasi.
Obasi’s legal counsel, Prof. Francis Dike (SAN), stated that the police told him his client was being investigated based on a petition alleging terrorism financing.
“They claim a petition was filed accusing Mr. Obasi of sponsoring terrorism, but I haven’t seen it. They said he can’t be seen or considered for bail until Monday, as the government is involved,” Dike said.
He added that due to the Vice President’s visit to the state, most government offices were shut over the weekend, delaying legal proceedings.
As of the time of this report, the Imo State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the arrest.
