The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has petitioned the UN, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the ECOWAS Court over the demolition of Igbo-owned shops and properties in Lagos.
ASITU President, Chief Emeka Diwe, described the action as “economic cleansing,” saying Nigeria is “dying from ethnic discrimination and selective justice.” He said the group turned to international bodies after local authorities ignored their complaints.
Diwe dismissed Lagos State’s claim that the buildings were on waterways, insisting they were legally acquired and approved. He warned the demolitions undermine investor confidence and violate citizens’ rights.
ASITU urged victims to remain peaceful and encouraged Igbo investors to reinvest in the South-East under the “Aku Ruo Ulo” (Let wealth return home) philosophy, stressing that their call is for justice, not secession.
