Ohanaeze Ndigbo has condemned the demolition of Igbo-owned shops in Lagos, calling it a political and economic attack.
The group urged President Tinubu to halt the actions and compensate affected traders.
The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has strongly condemned the ongoing demolition of shops and properties belonging to Igbo traders in Lagos State, describing the actions as politically motivated and a direct attack on the economic stability of the Igbo community.
In a detailed statement issued on Sunday, the group accused the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of engaging in “a calculated campaign” aimed at undermining Igbo-owned businesses ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands an immediate end to all demolition activities that target Igbo investments within Lagos State,” the statement read. “These demolitions go beyond urban regulation they represent a deliberate effort to cripple the economic backbone of the Igbo community and possibly drive them out of the state.”
The organization condemned the recent destruction of shops and structures at the Trade Fair Complex, describing it as an “economic assault and a gross violation” of fundamental human rights. It said the demolitions contravene several legal frameworks, including Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, the UN Convention on Human Rights, and provisions of the 1978 Land Use Act, which require lawful revocation of property rights, adequate notice, and compensation.
Ohanaeze stated that its independent investigation revealed serious breaches of the Lagos State Urban and Regional Development Law, noting that no environmental impact assessment or stakeholder consultation was conducted before the demolitions. It also cited statements from Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, acknowledging that the Trade Fair Complex falls under the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, thereby questioning the legality of the state-led operations.
The group reminded Governor Sanwo-Olu that the Igbo community had supported his 2019 election campaign but now faces economic devastation. According to Ohanaeze’s data, more than 2,753 properties including homes, shops, and warehouses have been demolished since 2019, resulting in losses estimated at ₦23 trillion.
“Ohanaeze notes a disturbing pattern of political retaliation against Igbo residents, particularly after the 2023 elections,” the statement added. “With inflation nearing 24%, these demolitions have deepened the hardship faced by traders and small business owners.”
The organization called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene immediately and compel the Lagos State Government to halt further demolitions and compensate victims. It also urged the Federal Government to reopen the Calabar Seaport, inactive for nearly six decades, and establish a new port at Azumiri Blue River in Ukwa East, Abia State, to boost economic activity in the Southeast.
Finally, Ohanaeze advised Igbo entrepreneurs in Lagos to begin reassessing their investments and consider relocating their businesses to the Southeast in line with the “Think Home” (Akụ Ruo Ụlọ) philosophy.
“United, we will confront these injustices and protect the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of the Igbo people,” the statement concluded.
