Towards promoting harmony within Nigeria’s diverse landscape, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, chairman of the Southeast Governors Forum, recently took a key step as a mediator between the Igbo community in Lagos and the Lagos State government. This development follows the receipt of a crucial committee report aimed at resolving lingering ethnic tensions that surfaced after the 2023 elections in Lagos, where Igbo shops, houses, and the Alaba International Market were demolished. The conversation and presentation of the committee’s work took place at the Civic Centre on June 1, 2025.
The tensions among various ethnic groups in Lagos have raised concerns across the nation. Multiple reports have highlighted the urgent need for effective measures to foster peaceful coexistence and unity between Lagos’s host community and the Ndi Igbo in Lagos.
In response, Governor Uzodinma, who has long been committed to addressing these social misunderstandings and conflicts involving the Igbo community, actively engaged in facilitating dialogue and peacebuilding efforts.
During a recent meeting, Uzodinma received and reviewed the committee’s report, which was composed of representatives from both the Igbo community and Lagos State. He promised to forward the report to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and shared insights with the committee chairman, General
Umaihi, and the secretary of the committee, Chris O. Maduka,
who presented the executive summary to the governor and the gathering, earning him a standing ovation.
Uzodinma emphasised his dedication to implementing the recommendations. The presentation of this report marked a pivotal step toward easing ethnic tensions and fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with Uzodinma’s broader vision of ensuring peace, stability, and socio-political harmony across Nigeria. He continues to work closely with various stakeholders—including Igbo leaders in Lagos and Lagos State officials—to address the root causes of discord, promote mutual understanding, and encourage collaborative development.
The receipt and consideration of this report symbolize hope for lasting peace and reconciliation in Lagos and Nigeria at large. As the Igbo community in Lagos patiently awaits the implementation of these recommendations, optimism persists that genuine harmony and unity will be achieved, creating a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
Governor Uzodinma stressed that resolving ethnic conflicts requires collective effort and a clear understanding of the underlying issues. He highlighted the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and active engagement in fostering peace. Addressing the gathering, he urged the Igbo community to align with Nigeria’s political realities, build solidarity, and leverage democratic opportunities for the collective good.
He also emphasized that peaceful coexistence and meaningful contributions by indigenes are vital for Lagos, a vibrant and diverse economic hub. Uzodinma assured that their concerns would be communicated to Lagos authorities, reinforcing that unity among the Igbo in Lagos would promote political awareness, progress, and socio-economic development.
Furthermore, he spoke on the importance of adherence to Nigeria’s laws and rules, urging the Igbo community to work toward a united and progressive Nigeria. Such unity not only enhances social harmony but also ensures that their sizable populations in Lagos and other cities can thrive together.
This forum aims to strengthen bonds among the Igbo people, promote peaceful coexistence, and encourage collective efforts to advance their communities within Nigeria’s legal and national framework. Uzodinma’s call for unity underscores a vital vision: a cohesive, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria where all ethnic groups contribute to shared growth and national development.
Below are some of the demolished areas: 
The pictures show the area where Igbo plazas, Union offices, and shops once stood at Alaba International Market. It’s now fully taken over by private investors from the Southwest, in collaboration with Ojo Local Government and Lagos officials.
The community has occupied the land with fencing and ongoing construction, despite a committee report recommending land restitution and compensation for the original owners. The people ignored these recommendations and leadership from Senator Hope Uzodinma and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, continuing to claim the land and leaving the original owners jobless and frustrated. This blatant disregard for law and authority is a serious act of impunity and should be looked into. Watch the live stream,,,,,,,https://www.facebook.com/Mediababe/videos/2740387222825221
