Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing demolition of properties in Lagos reportedly owned by Igbo residents.
What is happening to Igbo properties in Lagos
The demolitions, which have affected homes, offices, and business premises, have sparked concerns among the Igbo community, with some groups alleging that the exercise is targeted and discriminatory.
Babajide Olusola Sanwo‑Olu, the Lagos State Government has denied any ethnic bias, stating that the actions are aimed at removing structures built without proper approvals or those constructed hastily during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
Why did Kalu seek Tinubu’s intervention
Kalu described the demolitions as “worrisome and disheartening,” urging President Bola Tinubu to step in and direct the state government to provide affected property owners the opportunity to regularize their documents rather than face demolition.
“Allow them to rectify their documents instead of destruction,”
Kalu said, stressing the need for compassion during the current economic challenges. He pointed to the appointment of an Igbo Minister of Finance as evidence of President Tinubu’s inclusive governance and expressed hope that the President would act to protect Igbo interests in Lagos.
The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has petitioned international bodies, including the United Nations and ECOWAS, alleging that even lawfully acquired properties are being destroyed.
They described the demolitions as an “assault on justice, equality, and the fundamental principles of property rights.”
Conversely, a faction of the Igbo socio-cultural group Ohanaeze Ndigbo also condemned the demolition of Igbo-dominated markets in Lagos and called on both The President Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to halt the process.
While the state government maintains that the demolitions are part of a broader urban regulation effort, critics argue that the exercise disproportionately affects the Igbo community.
Moreover, there are fears that continued demolitions without intervention could lead to protests, legal action, and a shift of investments away from Lagos.
Observers warn that the situation, if not carefully handled, could heighten ethnic tensions and erode trust in government institutions.
Many are calling for a balanced approach that enforces urban regulations while safeguarding the rights of legitimate property owners.
As the issue gains national and international attention, all eyes are on President Tinubu’s response to Kalu’s appeal and the growing unrest among the Igbo community in Lagos.
To sum up everything, Kalu’s appeal to President Tinubu reflects a deep concern among Igbo residents whose properties in Lagos are under threat of demolition.
Also, he is calling for a more compassionate and lawful approach: instead of destroying homes and businesses, allow owners to regularize their documents.
If Tinubu does not respond, further loss, legal battles, protests, and bitterness may follow. The situation demands careful balancing of urban regulation with respect for citizens’ property rights. The hope is that dialogue, accountability, and fair treatment prevail before more lives and investments are lost.
Like Our Story ? Donate to Support Us, Click Here
You want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity/live coverage for product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +16477721660 or email Adebaconnector@gmail.com
