By Joy Odor | Abuja
The Global Igbo Foundation Initiatives (GIFI) has condemned in strong terms the demolition of shops and buildings belonging to Igbo traders at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, describing the exercise as “unjust, insensitive, and inhumane.”
In a searing statement signed by Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Lois, President of the Foundation, GIFI said the demolitions reportedly executed under the supervision of Lagos State Government agencies have rendered thousands of traders homeless, destroyed businesses, and inflicted untold economic hardship on families already grappling with Nigeria’s biting cost of living crisis.
“This action is unacceptable and must stop immediately,” Dr. Lois declared. “Many of the affected traders had met all their obligations — rents, taxes, levies, yet their shops and warehouses were demolished without due notice or consultation.”
The Foundation has therefore called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to immediately suspend all further demolitions, set up a review committee, and ensure full compensation for all affected traders.
GIFI also urged the Federal Government, National Assembly, and the Presidency to urgently wade into the matter to forestall further injustices and uphold citizens’ constitutional rights to live and trade freely anywhere in Nigeria.
The group further appealed to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), civil society organizations, and stakeholders to launch independent investigations and hold all those responsible to account.
“The Igbo community has for decades been a cornerstone of Lagos’ commercial growth, creating jobs, paying taxes, and boosting the economy. To subject such a vital business community to this scale of destruction is nothing short of economic violence,” GIFI stated.
While reaffirming that its members remain law-abiding and peace-loving citizens, the Foundation warned that acts of targeted demolition and economic displacement only erode trust, breed resentment, and undermine national unity.
“We stand in total solidarity with all affected traders,” the statement read. “Justice must be served and we will continue to engage relevant authorities peacefully and lawfully until redress is achieved.”
