The incessant demolition of Igbo-owned businesses in Lagos has raised questions about the security and stability of investments in the commercial hub. The viral video depicting distraught Igbo traders witnessing the destruction of their shops has intensified the call for a reevaluation of business strategies. This development underscores the vulnerability of businesses operated by individuals of Igbo extraction in Lagos.
Okechukwu Isiguzoro, in his statement, highlighted the urgency for Igbos to prioritize investments in the eastern part of the country. The Ohanaeze Ndigbo sees this as a necessary step to protect the economic interests of the Igbo community and ensure long-term stability. Isiguzoro emphasized that the consistent demolition of Igbo-dominated markets should serve as a wake-up call for a gradual relocation of businesses to the south-east.
The economic implications of these demolitions extend beyond the immediate loss of property. Businesses face disruptions, financial setbacks, and uncertainty in an environment where their operations are continuously under threat. By redirecting investments to the south-east, Igbos can contribute to the economic development of the region and establish a more secure business environment.
A chieftain of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said this on Saturday while reacting to a viral video of some distraught Igbo traders whose shops were demolished.
The helpless Igbo traders at the Trinity spare parts market in Apapa, Lagos, lamented their inability to salvage their goods and products before the demolition.
Isiguzoro said it was time for Igbos to gradually start relocating and moving their businesses back to the south-east.
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 condemned 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.”
The demolition of Igbo-dominated markets in Lagos has prompted Ohanaeze Ndigbo to call for a strategic reconsideration of business locations. Okechukwu Isiguzoro’s assertion that Igbos should gradually relocate and invest in the South-East reflects a proactive response to safeguard economic interests. As the Igbo community contemplates this shift, collaboration with the government and other stakeholders becomes imperative to overcome challenges and create a conducive business environment in the South-East.
