The Igbo Leadership in the United Kingdom and Ireland has made a heartfelt plea to both the Federal Government and Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, urging fairness and equitable treatment towards Igbo residents in the state.
As reported by Vanguard, Eze Okwuchukwu Nwosu, Eze Isiobi Ndigbo 1 UK and Ireland, in an open letter lamented that the Igbos were not treated fairly in Nigeria, claiming that since Nigeria’s amalgamation in 1914, the Igbo nation had been at the receiving end.
They cited historical grievances, stating that since Nigeria’s amalgamation in 1914, the Igbo community has often borne the brunt of systemic challenges.
Specifically addressing the recent demolitions of properties in Lagos, Eze Nwosu highlighted the legitimate land acquisitions made by the Igbo community in Lagos.
He emphasized the destruction of Igbo-owned properties in various areas such as Ladipo, Balogun, Alaba, and Trade Fair, expressing discontent that such measures were not employed during previous administrations.
Eze Nwosu also deemed the current actions as oppressive and lacking justifiable grounds.
The letter party reads, “Ndigbo legitimately bought empty lands and swampy areas in Lagos, and built their houses and other investments. They destroyed property of Ndigbo at Ladipo, Balogun, Alaba, Trade Fair, etc. They never destroyed the Igbo property in past administrations. This oppressive measure is being used against Igbos in Lagos with no justification.
“Nigerians agreed that it should be the turn of the Igbo through rotational presidency. But PDP and APC never allowed it. Peter Obi emerged against all odds in the 2023 general elections. INEC ensured that votes did not count.
“Two things must happen: to take Ndigbo as partners in decision-making of government in Nigeria or let us go. Ndigbo want one Nigeria. We are law-abiding. Allow us to do our trading because that is the only thing we can do since we are not allowed to preside over the affairs of this country.
“If you want Ndigbo to leave Lagos, let Federal Government peacefully quantify Igbo property in Lagos and settle the owners. Stop using the federal might to fight Ndigbo.
“There should be immediate compensation for Igbo property already destroyed. Let every Igbo man submit all their investments in Lagos, and get compensated so they can return to Alaigbo peacefully.
“It is our plea. Our investments across the federation can never be in vain. This is the last cry, or Igbo people will defend themselves again. We have seen the war; we lost almost five million people.”
