A chieftain of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, on Saturday, said it was time for Igbos to gradually start retreating and redirecting their businesses back to the South-East.
Isiguzoro was reacting to a circulated online video of helpless Igbo traders at the Trinity spare parts market in Apapa, Lagos, on February 1, 2024, lamenting over their inability to salvage their goods and products.
While describing the situation as disheartening, Isiguzoro said the organization was meticulously “documenting the systematic demolition of Igbo-populated markets in Lagos State,” adding that the body is “closely observing the distinct pattern of these demolitions.”
A statement by the factional Secretary General of Ohanaeze, decried the use of state machinery against peaceful Igbo traders in Lagos State.
According to Isiguzoro: “In light of these distressing events, Ndigbo must acknowledge that it is now time to gradually retreat and redirect their businesses back home.”
The factional Secretary General urged President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State to urgently intervene and stop future demolitions.
He added: “The relentless targeting of Igbo traders and their businesses under the guise of development is unacceptable.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores Igbo traders to relocate the headquarters of their businesses to Igbo land to avoid further complications arising from future market demolitions.
“We fervently urge President Tinubu and the Governor of Lagos State to demonstrate true leadership by intervening decisively to protect the rights and interests of all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity.”