Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, a foremost socio-cultural organisation representing the Ibibio ethnic nationality, has cried out over the demolition and alleged forceful takeover of its Lagos Secretariat and Community Centre by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), an agency under the Lagos State Government.
In a statement released by the group’s leadership, the demolition, which took place at their property located on Rufai Close, off Rufai Street, in the Ojuelegba area of Surulere, has been described as a shocking and painful assault on the heritage and identity of the Ibibio people in Lagos.
According to the group, the demolished building, which occupied about 758 square metres and was officially documented under Title No. M07300 at the Lagos State Lands Registry, was not just a structure but a historic symbol of Ibibio unity, progress, and cultural pride. For decades, it served as the administrative and social hub for members of the Akwa Ibom community living in Lagos, hosting meetings, cultural events, and charity activities.
The organisation said the action by LAMATA was carried out without due process, claiming that all attempts to resolve the issue peacefully were ignored by authorities. It also alleged that the move appeared to be “driven by ethnic prejudice and the prime value of the property’s location.”
In the words of the group:
“We condemn this act, in the strongest possible terms, as a blatant display of discrimination and dispossession. It is painfully evident that this action was carried out simply because the property belongs to a non-indigenous organisation.”
Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio also expressed outrage over what it called an “insulting offer” of ₦11 million as compensation for a property it valued at more than ₦250 million over fifteen years ago. The group said the demolition was executed “without the conclusion of negotiations or any formal agreement,” describing the act as unjust and provocative.
The group insisted that it is not seeking financial compensation but demanding justice and restoration. It called on the Lagos State Government to provide a replacement property of equal or greater value to restore the dignity of the Ibibio people and preserve the legacy of the organisation.
Highlighting what it termed a clear case of double standards, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio said while other ethnic groups — including the Yoruba — live peacefully and own properties in Akwa Ibom State without discrimination, the same respect has not been shown to Ibibios living in Lagos.
“No people should ever be made to feel like strangers in their own country,” the statement added.
The organisation appealed to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and Nigerians of goodwill to intervene and help correct what it described as a grave injustice. It also called on human rights bodies and cultural advocates across the country to stand in solidarity with the Ibibio people.
Reaffirming its determination to seek redress, the group concluded with a message of resilience:
“Let it be known: the spirit of the Ibibio cannot be demolished, displaced, or silenced. Our unity, pride, and heritage remain indestructible. We shall continue to stand firm, speak the truth, and pursue justice with peace, honour, and unwavering faith in fairness.”
Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, which has its international headquarters in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, operates several chapters across Nigeria and abroad, including in the United States, Canada, Europe, South Africa, and Lagos.
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