The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and stop ongoing demolitions of properties believed to be owned by Igbo residents in Lagos State.
Speaking in Umuahia, the organisation urged the Federal Government, the Minister of Works and Housing, and the Attorney-General of the Federation to prevail on the Lagos State Government to reconsider the exercise and show fairness to affected property owners.
ASITU President, Chief Emeka Diwe, emphasised the long-standing historical bond between the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups, noting that both communities have shared cooperation and competition but remain deeply connected.
“We cannot allow this demolition matter to damage the relationship between Igbo and Yoruba people,” Diwe cautioned. He warned that ethnic discrimination, selective justice, and erosion of citizens’ trust in government continue to weaken national unity.
The union insisted that the affected buildings are not illegal structures or abandoned shanties but legitimate business premises and investments.
“These are buildings where parents work to support their families, warehouses where young entrepreneurs store goods, and shops where many pursue their dreams through hard work and prayer,” the group stated.
ASITU called for an immediate stop to the demolition exercise and urged authorities to adopt a more inclusive and humane approach that fosters peace and unity among Nigerians.
