The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has formally petitioned international human rights bodies over the ongoing demolitions of properties owned by Igbo-traders and investors in Lagos State, alleging a campaign of selective enforcement and economic disenfranchisement. (Vanguard News)
ASITU’s National President, Chief Emeka Diwe, addressed journalists in Umuahia, Abia State, saying the decision to escalate the matter internationally came after repeated, unsuccessful attempts to engage Nigerian institutions for redress. “We have done this not because we lack faith in Nigerian institutions, but because those institutions have failed to respond adequately,” he stated. (Ikenga Online)
The union accuses the Lagos State Government of targeting Igbo-owned buildings under pretexts such as being built on waterways, despite many of the structures allegedly having valid government approvals. Diwe called the practice “economic cleansing,” warning that the pattern erodes investor confidence and has broader implications for national unity. (Vanguard News)
ASITU highlighted specific demolition events, including a clearance of Igbo-owned plazas at the Ebute Ero Market in February 2025, and claimed that similar actions have been taken at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo. (Ikenga Online)
The petitions were submitted to:
The UNHRC — to investigate potential violations of rights to property and non-discrimination. (INNONEWS.COM.NG)
The ACHPR — to hold Nigeria accountable under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. (Vanguard News)
The ECOWAS Court — to seek regional legal redress for affected individuals. (BarristerNG.com)
In tandem, ASITU announced the creation of a Property Rights Violation Desk to document cases, collate evidence and assist property-owners in pursuing domestic or international legal action. (Ikenga Online)
Chief Diwe also encouraged diaspora Igbo investors to direct their investments to the South-East (“Aku Ruo Ulo”) as a long-term strategy for economic resilience in light of the reported Lagos demolitions. (Vanguard News)
