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The leadership and members of the Igbo-Speaking Community in Lagos have appealed to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to intervene and facilitate the release of Chief Sunday Udeh, President of the Igbo-Speaking Community in Lagos, who is currently in detention.
This appeal was contained in a statement by the secretary of the group, Prince Joshua Nnanna Kalu, yesterday in Lagos
Part of the statement read: “We acknowledge with deep appreciation the Governor’s continued commitment to justice, peace and inclusiveness among the diverse ethnic communities residing in Lagos. It is in this spirit of fairness and humanity that we humbly call for his compassionate consideration in the ongoing matter involving our leader, Chief Udeh, whose health has deteriorated due to his hypertensive condition.
“Chief Udeh is a respected community leader, who has worked tirelessly to promote peaceful coexistence between Ndigbo and their host communities in Lagos. The Igbo-Speaking Community, duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (Reg. No. 11534) since 1997, was established to foster unity and ensure that Igbos across Lagos State abide by the laws and culture of their host environment.
“The current ordeal stemmed from a misunderstanding surrounding the issuance of a certificate to Chief Chibuike Azubuike, who was recognised by the community as the Obi of Alimosho, meaning the leader of Ndigbo within the Alimosho Local Government Area, not “Obi of Lagos” as has been widely misinterpreted.
“The position was created purely to coordinate Igbo affairs within that local jurisdiction and has no bearing on traditional titles or territorial claims in Lagos State.
“Unfortunately, this issue has led to legal suit following the arrest of Chief Azubuike and others while allegedly preparing for an event referring to the “Obi of Lagos.” The matter was referred to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which subsequently included Udeh among those to be arraigned.
“Despite several court appearances, Udeh has remained in custody under conditions that continue to endanger his health. His legal counsel has repeatedly applied for bail on medical grounds, but this has not been granted. The next hearing has been scheduled for November 17, at the Lagos State High Court.
“As a peace-loving and law-abiding people, we, the Igbo-Speaking Community in Lagos State, humbly appeal to Governor Sanwo-Olu, to exercise his renowned sense of compassion and fatherly disposition by intervening in this matter. We fear that continued detention could have grave consequences for Udeh’s health, and by extension, the unity and morale of our community.
“We reiterate our unwavering respect for the government and people of Lagos State and our commitment to the rule of law. Our only plea is that mercy and understanding be extended to our leader, who has consistently worked to promote harmony between Ndigbo and our Yoruba brothers and sisters.
“We trust that our beloved Governor will once again demonstrate his magnanimity and uphold Lagos State’s legacy as a centre of justice, equity and peaceful coexistence.”
