Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned Igbos in Lagos State against erecting structures without permits.
Ohanaeze, according to Iwuanyanwu, may find it difficult to defend Igbos who violate Lagos construction restrictions.
During a press conference, he stated that he had learned that all demolished houses violated land acquisition laws.
He said:
“On the demolition of houses of Igbos, the information I have from the government is that some of the houses are built on roads and drainage lines.
“We have to obey the laws of the land. Apply for approval from the government agency. Then you can be rest assured that Ohanaeze will defend you.
“But if you go on to build on drainage lines, and roads, you failed to abide by the law of the land and did not get approvals, it will be difficult to support you in any way.”
Iwuanyanwu also noted that Igbos are “the pioneers” and “heroes” of modern Lagos State.
He said Igbo forebearers made parts of the state habitable.
He said:
“When Lagos became the federal capital, the development of such territory was a challenge in all countries.
“The Igbo forebearers, most of whom are dead today, rose to the challenge of that time.
“The challenge of that time was investment to make Lagos befitting as the federal capital territory. Igbos converted swampy lands to habitable places.”