LG Polls: Lagos Rejects Igbo Votes — Ohanaeze

Dr. Solomon Ogbonna Aguene, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos, has raised the alarm over the treatment of Igbos in the local government elections. He said Igbos in Lagos have again been denied the right to vote or run for office.

Speaking from his Ikoyi residence, Aguene condemned the ongoing marginalization. He said the disenfranchisement of Igbos has become a routine in every election cycle. According to him, despite their contributions to the economy, Igbos face systematic exclusion.

Aguene noted that many Igbos are active in business, real estate, and commerce across the state. Still, they remain blocked from contesting for chairmanship and councillorship positions. “Only a few Igbos hold minor positions like vice chairman, and that’s not enough,” he said.

He insisted that this pattern goes against the principles of democracy. “Democracy should mean fairness and equity. But in Lagos, it looks more like power-grabbing than governance,” Aguene stressed.

He added that voter apathy is growing because people feel helpless. “Nigerians are tired of voting with no results. Many see elections as a waste of time,” he said.

Aguene also addressed the economic struggles facing ordinary citizens. He said most workers, including journalists and security personnel, cannot afford basic needs. “The cost of living is unbearable. Yet, those in power enjoy luxury,” he said.

The Igbo leader urged Lagos officials to stop the exclusion and respect democratic values. He warned that continued injustice would only increase mistrust in the government. “If Igbos are good enough to build Lagos, they are good enough to lead too,” he concluded.

His statement has sparked debate online. Many users backed him, saying no ethnic group should be sidelined anywhere in Nigeria.