Dr. Solomon Ogbonna Aguene, President of the Lagos State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has raised concerns over the alleged exclusion of Igbos from the ongoing local government elections taking place today, July 12.
Speaking from his residence in Ikoyi, Aguene expressed deep dissatisfaction, claiming that Igbo residents in Lagos are routinely denied the right to vote and contest for key political positions during elections.
“This isn’t the first time Igbos are being denied the opportunity to vote or be voted for. It happens every election cycle,” he said. “Despite our significant contributions to the economy and politics of Lagos, we are excluded from holding positions like Local Government Chairman or Councillor. At best, we have one or two Igbo Vice Chairmen.”
Aguene argued that such treatment contradicts the principles of democracy, which should be based on equity, justice, and fairness. Instead, he described the system as one dominated by opportunists, leading to widespread voter apathy.
He added that Igbos are among the largest investors in Lagos and should be given a fair chance to participate in governance. “The situation in Nigeria is dire,” he said. “Even essential workers like journalists and security personnel struggle to meet basic needs. Governance today serves only a privileged few, while the majority continue to suffer.”