The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has petitioned the United Nations, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice over what it describes as the “systematic demolition” of Igbo-owned properties in Lagos State.
During a press conference in Umuahia, ASITU President Chief Emeka Diwe condemned the demolitions, calling them acts of “economic cleansing” aimed at marginalizing Igbo business owners. He accused Nigerian institutions of failing to uphold justice and equality, noting that the group turned to international bodies after being ignored by local authorities.
Diwe rejected the Lagos State Government’s explanation that the affected structures were illegal, insisting the properties were duly approved and lawfully acquired. He warned that such actions undermine investor confidence and portray Nigeria as a country where ethnicity influences justice.
He further alleged that many property owners received demolition notices only days before enforcement, preventing legal challenges, while officials disregarded valid approval documents.
ASITU urged calm but advised Igbo entrepreneurs to invest more in the Southeast to strengthen regional development, invoking the philosophy of Aku Ruo Ulo—“let wealth return home.” Diwe clarified that the move was not separatist but a demand for fairness, equity, and mutual respect among Nigeria’s ethnic groups.
