Global Igbo Foundation Initiatives Condemns Demolition of Igbo Traders’ Shops at Lagos Trade Fair Complex

By our Correspondent

The Global Igbo Foundation Initiatives (GIFI) has strongly condemned the recent demolition of shops and buildings belonging to Igbo traders at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Ojo.

This was contained in a statement signed by Nkata Kalu, Head of Media and Publicity of the Foundation, and made available to journalists in Abuja.

According to the statement, the demolitions, allegedly carried out under the supervision of Lagos State Government agencies, have rendered thousands of traders homeless, destroyed their businesses, and plunged many families into severe economic hardship.

Describing the action as unjust, insensitive, and inhumane, the Foundation noted that it comes at a time when Nigerians are already facing difficult economic realities. It added that some of the affected traders had met all obligations to relevant authorities—including payment of rent, levies, and taxes—yet their shops, warehouses, and offices were demolished without proper notice or consultation, leaving behind widespread devastation and despair.

The President of the Foundation, Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Lois, described the incident as unacceptable and called on the Lagos State Government to immediately suspend all further demolitions at the Trade Fair Complex and other parts of the state.

The Foundation also urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to set up a review committee to investigate the exercise and ensure that adequate compensation is provided to all affected traders.

While appealing to its members across the country to continue conducting their businesses in accordance with the law, GIFI emphasized that the rule of law exists for the good of all and must always be respected.

The organization further called on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and the Presidency to urgently intervene to prevent further injustice and to protect the constitutional rights of all Nigerians to live and do business freely in any part of the country.

Additionally, the Foundation appealed to the National Human Rights Commission, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The statement stressed that the Igbo community in Lagos has, for decades, played a vital role in the state’s economic growth—creating jobs, paying taxes, and contributing immensely to its commercial and industrial development. It therefore described the demolitions as a grave act of economic violence against a key segment of the business community.

Reaffirming its commitment to justice, equity, and national unity, the Global Igbo Foundation maintained that its members are peace-loving and law-abiding citizens who believe in one Nigeria. However, it warned that continued acts of targeted demolition and economic displacement could fuel resentment and undermine unity.

The Foundation expressed solidarity with all affected traders and vowed to continue engaging relevant authorities through peaceful and lawful means until justice is achieved.