GENERAL
By Tennyson Sampson
THE Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide says that its attention has been drawn to several fake publications circulating on social media alleging that a decision by the Lagos State Government to take actions to victimize Igbos living in Lagos.
In a statement by Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the group said that since the disturbing news broke out, it has conducted investigations in order to establish the true state of affairs.
It explained that one of the reliable sources, Chinedu Ukatu, Member, Lagos State Market Advisory Council and President Ndigbo-Amaka Progressive Market Association, stated that “the Lagos State Environment and Development Authority has been issuing warnings as regards the obstruction of some water ways”.
Ukatu added: “All that happened at Alaba and the emergency visit by the state government officials were directly about those blocking the free flow of water through the provided waterways.”
According to Ukatu, the directive is “not in any way related to plazas and shops on the markets or along the market road”.
Ukatu enjoins all and sundry to “disregard the statements and video messages trending on the Internet and admonished that such propaganda is not necessary for the Igbo at this time”.
Another Alaba resident, Ikechukwu Okolo stated: “The truth is that, some structures were erected on waterways, thereby obstructing drainages and causing flooding, especially during the rainy seasons.
“The owners of the affected structures have since been notified, for months, but as we can see, each time the execution order was to be effected, corrupt Government officials would get compromised and the flooding challenge continues, until this time,” he said.
Evaristus Ozonweke, an Ohanaeze chieftain, resident in Lagos, has also validated the above position.
It also stated that the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has expressed concern over the lingering problems in Lagos.
While urging the Lagos State Environment and Development Authority to exercise prudence and best considerations in discharging its duties, he urged the Igbos in Lagos to remain calm.
He therefore indicated a pressing need to visit Lagos and the South West in the next few weeks and that during the visit, all the challenges confronting the Igbos in Lagos will be addressed.
Tags: Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu
