By Wilson Adekumola
The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma is set to meet with his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday to resolve the issue of demolition of some plazas at the Alaba International Market in Ojo.
Uzodimma, the chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum, an umbrella body of governors elected on the All Progressives Congress platform, was delegated by political and private sector leaders from the Southeast to carry out the assignment.
The leaders arrived at the decision during their meeting at the Ikoyi, Lagos residence of billionaire businessman and chairman, Chikason Group., Chika Okafor.
During the meeting, they called for a diplomatic solution to the demolitions at the international market.
Prominent among the attendees include Enugu State Governor Peter Mba; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu; former President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Sam Ohuabunwa, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Drainage, Joe Igbokwe and Representative of the Igbo Intelligentsia Forum, Chris Maduka.
Governor Uzodinma who was elated that the Igbo were discussing solutions to their problems, said, “The Igbo have courage. Our work is to unite the people for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. The Igbo have to be innovative. I will meet with Lagos Governor tomorrow (today) to find the ways out of the issues at hand.”
Mba who also stated that the Igbo have to promote private-sector-led enterprises, stressed that the Southeast governors were already discussing a common market for the region.
Speaking, Chief Ben Obi, noted that the Igbo should begin to build bridges and contribute more to a stable government, saying, “We are not enemies of the government in power. The elections are over, and now is the time to work together and support the government in power. There is also a need to canvass for Igbo rights as good citizens of Nigeria”.
In his own part, Chief Jerry Chukwueke, who was one of the speakers called for the restoration of normalcy between the Alaba Market Traders and the government of Lagos State, Maduka, said what was happening to the Igbo in Lagos was historical.
While suggesting that it should be resolved diplomatically, Maduka said, “Let us remind the Igbos that what is happening is historical, and symbolic. What we are seeking is a diplomatic solution.”
