The Igbo National Union Worldwide (INU-W) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Lagos State Government over the demolition of Igbo-owned properties and businesses in Lagos.
The union also called on the Federal Government to intervene, expressing concern that the ongoing demolitions could escalate tensions and undermine national harmony if not addressed urgently.
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In a statement signed by its Administrative Secretary, Mazi Austin-Mary Ndukwu, on Tuesday, INU-W faulted both the Federal Government and prominent Yoruba leaders for remaining silent on the matter.
“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 union stated.
The union called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure the immediate cessation of what it termed “lopsided and discriminatory demolitions.”
It emphasised that Igbos are legitimate stakeholders who have contributed significantly to Lagos’ commercial and infrastructural development.
“The continued silence from the Federal Government and Yoruba leaders only emboldens this troubling trend,” Ndukwu added.
INU-W warned that if the Lagos State Government fails to engage in dialogue with affected property owners within the 30-day period, the union would be compelled to take “appropriate and lawful steps in defence of our people’s dignity and economic survival.”
The union further reminded all parties that no ethnic group holds a monopoly on peace or power.
It added, “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.”
