By Ademola Adekusibe
October 17, 2025
The Igbo National Union Worldwide (INU-W) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Lagos State and Federal Governments over what it described as the continued demolition of properties and businesses owned by Igbo people in Lagos.
In a statement signed by its Administrative Secretary, Mazi Austin-Mary Ndukwu, the group expressed concern over what it called the silence of both the Federal Government and prominent Yoruba leaders on the issue.
The INU-W warned that the demolitions and the perceived indifference of federal authorities could threaten national cohesion and fuel ethnic tension if not immediately addressed.
The union urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and caution the Lagos State Government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other influential Yoruba figures, stressing that any policy perceived as targeting Igbo economic interests could have serious repercussions.
According to the statement, recent demolition exercises by the Lagos State Government have disproportionately affected properties and businesses owned by Igbo entrepreneurs, sparking allegations of ethnic bias.
The group accused the state government of pursuing a “dangerous agenda” aimed at economically displacing Igbos and undermining their contributions to Lagos’ development.
“The recent wave of demolitions has caused anguish and despair among Ndigbo in Lagos. These actions, carried out under various guises, appear to be deliberate attempts to weaken our people economically,” the statement read.
It further cautioned that no ethnic group has a monopoly on peace or power, warning that sustained hostility against Igbos could provoke avoidable confrontation.
“We remind the Yoruba nation that the Igbo have survived greater trials in history, including economic blockade and deprivation during the civil war. We will not be forced out of Lagos unjustly. However, if this continues, we are prepared to respond accordingly,” the union stated.
