The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has escalated its protest against what it calls the “systematic demolition” of Igbo-owned properties in Lagos State, filing petitions before the United Nations Human Rights Council, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice.
Speaking at a press briefing in Umuahia, Abia State, ASITU’s National President, Chief Emeka Diwe, condemned the demolitions, describing them as acts of “economic cleansing” targeted at Igbo traders and investors.
Diwe lamented that Nigeria was “gradually dying from the cancer of ethnic discrimination and selective justice,” accusing government institutions of failing to uphold fairness and equality.
Flanked by members of ASITU’s National Executive Council representing various Igbo communities, the president explained that the petitions were filed after several unsuccessful attempts to engage relevant Nigerian authorities.
“We have not lost faith in Nigerian institutions, but they have consistently failed to respond to our documented complaints. That is why we have turned to regional and international bodies for intervention,” he stated.
Diwe dismissed the Lagos State Government’s claim that the demolished buildings were illegally constructed on waterways, insisting that the explanation was a cover for deeper prejudice.
“These properties were lawfully acquired and duly approved by relevant agencies. Such demolitions send a disturbing message to investors, that property rights in Nigeria are insecure and that ethnicity may determine how justice is applied,” Diwe asserted.
He emphasized that the destruction of legitimate businesses would harm investor confidence, reduce job opportunities, and damage Nigeria’s reputation as a nation governed by the rule of law.
According to ASITU, many demolition notices were issued only a few days before enforcement, preventing property owners from seeking legal redress.
The group further accused officials of ignoring valid approval documents presented by affected traders.
“Many of these buildings had valid permits issued by the same Lagos State Government that later tore them down. This is not law enforcement. It is the deliberate erasure of livelihoods and a violation of constitutional guarantees of equality and justice,” Diwe said.
While appealing for calm, ASITU urged the Igbo business community to redirect part of their investments to the South-East to promote regional economic growth.
“To our brothers and sisters in business, do not lose hope. Let us embrace the philosophy of Aku Ruo Ulo, let wealth return home,” Diwe advised.
“When we invest in our homeland, we create jobs, security, and dignity for our people.”
He clarified that ASITU’s demand was not an agitation for secession but a call for justice and equitable treatment.
“Our call for justice is not a demand for separation,” Diwe explained, “but a demand for fairness, mutual respect, and equitable treatment of all ethnic groups in Nigeria.”
