The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his strong condemnation of the unjust demands from certain Nigerian groups urging the Igbos residing and operating businesses in Lagos to leave and relocate to the eastern region of the country.
In a press release signed by Chief Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the sentiments expressed by Obasanjo were highlighted. He stated, “Those advocating for the Igbo to leave Lagos will be the ones to leave instead.”
Chief Ogbonnia further noted that the former President firmly believes no Nigerian should be forced out from any part of the nation, emphasizing that “we share ownership of this country together.”
The statement elaborated on the concerns raised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo regarding the ongoing ethnic profiling, hate speech, and destruction of Igbo properties and livelihoods in Lagos State over recent years.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo lamented that there are ongoing efforts to incite “Lagosians and all South-West stakeholders to prepare for a significant protest dubbed #IgboMustGo from August 20th – 30th, 2024.”
They pointed out that a social media account named ‘LagosPedia’ recently called for the “forced relocation of Igbo individuals from Lagos and other South-West states within a month,” while the hashtag #IgboMustGo also urged all “Yoruba residing in the South East to return to the South West.”
Reflecting on past events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo recalled the troubling incidents from June 2023, just before the gubernatorial elections on March 18, where a viral video featured Alh. Musiliu Akinsanya, known as ‘MC Oluomo,’ threatening Igbo residents with dire consequences unless they supported the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Following Oluomo’s comments, political thugs resorted to archaic methods to identify individuals of Igbo descent, violently suppressing their voting rights. Reports surfaced of intimidation tactics, where victims recounted being told to return to their home states simply based on their appearance or voting preferences.
This troubling trend echoes back to 2015 when the Oba of Lagos threatened the Igbo community, demanding their allegiance to the APC or face dire consequences. Similarly, in March 2023, Bayo Onanuga warned against any future Igbo political involvement in Lagos.
Recent reports included the arson of the Akere Spare Parts Market, highlighting the targeted aggression against Igbo-owned businesses. Despite the threats and violence, the Igbo community remains resilient, with leaders expressing disbelief at the government’s inaction in the face of such overt hostility.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo lamented the demolition of Igbo properties at various markets, including Alaba International Market, expressing shock at the treatment of over one million Igbo traders who contribute significantly to Lagos’s economy.
The late Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, expressed profound sorrow when he witnessed the aftermath of these demolitions.
The situation worsened in November 2023 when further demolitions occurred at Abule Ado, leading to renewed calls for unity among the Igbo community. The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, condemned these divisive actions, affirming that Lagos is home for all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic background.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s intervention, recalling his historical commitment to fairness and equity in Nigerian politics. His advocacy for the equitable distribution of power has significantly shaped the country’s political landscape, as seen in his support for various leadership transitions favoring inclusivity.
In this climate of tension, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands firm in their call for unity and peace among all Nigerians, advocating for respect and coexistence among diverse ethnic groups in Lagos and beyond.
