A group of concerned Lagosians has expressed its firm support for the Lagos State Government over the removal of illegal structures in parts of the state.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday, the Concerned Lagos Stakeholders strongly criticised individuals of Igbo extraction who, through the Igbo National Union Worldwide, allegedly issued a 30-day ultimatum to the state government over the demolition exercise.
The group condemned the ultimatum, describing it as “a deliberate attempt to revive old and divisive tendencies reminiscent of the 1952 NCNC episode in Lagos.”
According to the stakeholders, the removal of illegal structures across Lagos is not targeted at any particular ethnic group. Rather, it is part of the state government’s broader effort to enforce urban planning laws, maintain public order, and position Lagos as a world-class city.
“We call on all individuals and groups occupying unauthorised structures to cooperate with the government for the sake of peaceful coexistence. Historical misjudgments must not be repeated. The Yoruba of Western Nigeria have always valued compliance with building regulations to ensure public safety and orderly urban development,” the group stated.
The group also faulted what it called attempts to “impose external leadership on the Yoruba nation,” stressing its unwavering support for the Lagos State Government and development initiatives in the state.
“Lagos thrives on the rule of law and mutual respect — principles that some lawbreakers have abused. Issuing threats or ultimatums against lawful government action is counterproductive and an attempt to browbeat Lagosians in their own homeland,” the statement added.
The group emphasised that the enforcement of urban and regional planning laws applies uniformly and without discrimination. These measures, it explained, are essential to keeping the city safe, clean, and habitable for all residents.
While acknowledging that the majority of Igbo residents in Lagos are peaceful and law-abiding, the stakeholders warned against actions capable of provoking ethnic tension.
“The Yoruba are known for their accommodating spirit, but we reject any ultimatum to the state government. We urge the leadership of the Igbo National Union Worldwide to embrace dialogue and engage constructively with relevant government agencies on legitimate urban and land use matters — not provocation,” the statement said.
The group also reminded residents that land administration in each state is vested in the governor, in line with the Land Use Act. It urged anyone unwilling to abide by Lagos laws to “reconsider their continued contravention.”
“Lagos belongs to everyone who lives and works here peacefully, but it remains, unmistakably, a Yoruba homeland. Issuing ultimatums and threats must stop forthwith,” it concluded.
