The leading Igbo [/b]socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has issued a strong denial regarding reports claiming that the Lagos State Government is targeting Igbo residents in the ongoing building demolitions in the state. The organization's response comes in the wake of public outcry over the demolition activities that took place at Alaba International Market in the Ojo Local Government Area.
According to Gbolahan Oki, the General Manager of the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the buildings slated for demolition had been issued quit notices as far back as 2016. However, certain criticisms have emerged, alleging that the decision to demolish was specifically aimed at Igbo individuals within the market.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson for Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Alex Ogbonnia, addressed the situation and revealed that the organization had conducted thorough investigations to uncover the truth behind the demolitions. Furthermore, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, called for calm among the Igbo occupants of the market and urged the state government and the state's Environment and Development Authority to approach the demolition exercise with caution and a clear objective.
Part of the statement reads as follows: "The attention of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has been drawn to several fake publications circulating on social media alleging a decision by the Lagos State Government to take actions to victimize the Igbo citizens domiciled in Lagos. Since the disturbing news broke out, we have made investigations in order to establish the true state of affairs."
