Aguocha Decries Rising Discrimination Against Igbos, Demands Action From Leaders

Hon. Obi Aguocha, the lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, has urged Igbo political, cultural, and community leaders to take decisive steps against what he described as the growing wave of discrimination and marginalisation of Ndigbo across Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State.

In a statement released on Saturday, Aguocha alleged that credible reports point to a systematic erasure of Igbo street names, which are being replaced with Yoruba names. He further claimed that estates and properties lawfully acquired by Igbos are being branded “illegal” and demolished, while certificates of occupancy face threats of revocation.

According to the lawmaker, the disenfranchisement of Igbos during the 2023 general elections was part of a broader scheme to undermine their political voice. He also condemned the recent inauguration of an eight-member National Census Commission, noting with concern that it lacked any Igbo representation despite the group making up an estimated 30 percent of Nigeria’s population. He highlighted that the Yoruba ethnic group holds four seats on the commission, which he described as a violation of the federal character principle.

Addressing the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Aguocha described the situation as “a glaring injustice,” pointing out that known bandit leaders and terrorists in other regions operate openly without facing state prosecution. He accused the government of applying double standards that threaten national unity.

“This is not the time for leaders to stay silent or complacent. The so-called ‘host community’ mantra is now being used to undermine constitutional rights guaranteeing every Nigerian the freedom to live and own property anywhere in the federation. We must confront these threats head-on before it is too late,” Aguocha warned.

He called on the Southeast caucus of the National Assembly to table these concerns in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, stressing that legislative advocacy is critical in addressing systemic injustices.

Aguocha also urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, to dispatch a high-powered delegation to meet with the Lagos State governor over the alleged acts of discrimination. He pledged to personally join any such delegation, reaffirming his commitment to defending the rights and dignity of the Igbo people.

The lawmaker concluded by demanding full adherence to the federal character principle in national appointments and decision-making bodies, insisting that equitable representation is essential for peace, justice, and national cohesion.