Major Igbo socio-cultural organizations, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Igbo Town Unions, have filed formal petitions with the United Nations and the ECOWAS Court alleging the Lagos State government’s property demolitions and policies constitute a targeted violation of the Igbo people’s fundamental rights.
Leading Igbo socio-cultural organizations have submitted formal petitions to the United Nations and the ECOWAS Court of Justice, alleging human rights violations by the Lagos State government following a series of property demolitions. The petitions, filed by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the Association of South East Town Unions (ASETU), claim the actions disproportionately targeted and displaced Igbo residents and businesses.
The groups are seeking international intervention, arguing that the demolitions and recent political rhetoric have created an atmosphere of discrimination and insecurity for the Igbo community in Lagos. The petitions call for investigations into the alleged violations of fundamental rights to property and dignity.
President General of ASETU, Chief Emeka Diwe, confirmed the legal action, stating the community was left with no choice. “We have petitioned the UN and the ECOWAS Court. We can no longer tolerate the persecution of our people,” Diwe said.
Similarly, a leader from Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized the need for external scrutiny, asserting, “The Lagos State government must be held accountable for its actions in the international community.” The organizations allege the state’s policies have systematically undermined the economic and social stability of Igbo citizens.
The Lagos State government has previously defended the demolitions as necessary enforcement of urban planning laws against illegal structures. The international bodies have yet to make a public response to the newly filed petitions.