Igbo leaders seek diplomatic solution to Lagos market demolitions

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma will today meet with his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, over the demolition of some plazas at the Alaba International Market in Ojo.

Uzodimma, who chairs the Progressives Governors’ Forum, an umbrella body of governors elected on the All Progressives Congress(APC) platform, was delegated by political and private sector leaders from the Southeast to carry out the task.

The leaders took the decision during their meeting at the Ikoyi, Lagos residence of billionaire businessman and chairman, Chikason Group., Chika Okafor.

At the meeting, they called for a diplomatic solution to the demolitions at the international market.

Enugu State Governor Peter Mba; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu; former President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Sam Ohuabunwa, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Drainage, Joe Igbokwe and Representative of the Igbo Intelligentsia Forum, Chris Maduka were among those at the parley.

Uzodinma expressed joy that the Igbo were discussing solutions to their problems.

He said: “The Igbo have courage. Our work is to unite the people for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. The Igbo have to be innovative. I will meet with Lagos Governor tomorrow (today) to find the ways out of the issues at hand.”

Also, Mba said the Igbo have to promote private-sector-led enterprises. He added that the Southeast governors were already discussing a common market for the region.

One of the speakers, Chief Ben Obi, said the Igbo should begin to build bridges and contribute more to a stable government.

He said: “We are not enemies of the government in power. The elections are over, and now is the time to work together and support the government in power. There is also a need to canvass for Igbo rights as good citizens of Nigeria”.

While another speaker, Chief Jerry Chukwueke, called for the restoration of normalcy between the Alaba Market Traders and the government of Lagos State, Maduka, said what was happening to the Igbo in Lagos was historical.

He suggested that it should be resolved diplomatically.

“Let us remind the Igbos that what is happening is historical, and symbolic. What we are seeking is a diplomatic solution,” Maduka said.