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| Demolished property. |
The Igbo National Union Worldwide (INU-W) has voiced strong concern over what it described as the continued demolition of properties and businesses owned by Igbos in Lagos State, criticising both the Federal Government and notable Yoruba leaders for their silence on the matter.
In a statement signed by its Administrative Secretary, Mazi Austin-Mary Ndukwu, the union warned that the ongoing demolitions, coupled with what it termed the indifference of federal authorities, could threaten national unity and trigger ethnic tensions if not promptly addressed.
The organisation appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution the Lagos State Government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other influential Yoruba personalities, insisting that the targeting of the economic interests of the Igbo community in Lagos could lead to serious repercussions.
According to INU-W, the recent demolition exercises carried out by the Lagos State Government have disproportionately affected businesses and properties belonging to Igbo entrepreneurs, sparking fears of ethnic discrimination.
The union accused the Lagos authorities of pursuing a “dangerous agenda” designed to economically displace the Igbos and stifle their contributions to the development of Lagos.
“The recent wave of demolitions has caused anguish and despair among Ndigbo living in Lagos. These actions, carried out under various guises, are viewed as deliberate attempts to weaken our people economically.
“The continued silence from the Federal Government and Yoruba leaders only emboldens this troubling trend,” the statement read in part.
INU-W urged President Tinubu to intervene and ensure the immediate suspension of what it described as “lopsided and discriminatory demolitions,” emphasising that Igbos are rightful stakeholders in Lagos who have significantly contributed to its commercial and infrastructural advancement.
The union also gave the Lagos State Government a 30-day ultimatum to initiate dialogue with affected property owners and reach a peaceful resolution to avoid a potential escalation of tensions.
“The Lagos State Government must retrace its steps and open genuine discussions with victims of these demolitions within 30 days. Failure to do so may compel us to take appropriate and lawful steps in defence of our people’s dignity and economic survival,” the statement added.
The union further cautioned that no ethnic group possesses exclusive control over peace or power, warning that continuous hostility against Igbos could lead to unnecessary conflict.
“We remind the Yoruba nation that the Igbo have survived far worse challenges in history, including the economic blockade and deprivation during the civil war. We will not be driven out of Lagos unjustly, but if the situation persists, we are prepared to respond decisively,” it said.
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