Joe Igbokwe claims Lagos mob attack was politically motivated

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Joe Igbokwe, has alleged that the hostility he faced at the Ladipo Market in Lagos on Saturday was politically motivated, even as he dismissed reports that he was physically attacked during the incident.

Speaking with PUNCH, Igbokwe said he was not physically assaulted during the incident, contrary to reports circulating on social media.

The Lagos APC stalwart, however, alleged that the hostility directed at him stemmed from his political affiliation and outspoken views on national issues.

“There was no mob attack. Nobody touched my body. It was just that they were making noise and people tried to caution them.

“Maybe politics. Maybe because I am an APC man. Maybe because I don’t like the politics they play. Make friends with major ethnic groups, and that is how you can rule Nigeria, but it is not forthcoming,” he said.

Igbokwe added that some people often view his comments and advice as antagonistic despite his intentions.

“There are things we saw during the first civil war. If you advise them, you will become an enemy. You become a saboteur,” he said.

Recounting what transpired, Igbokwe said he had visited the popular Ladipo Market in Lagos to purchase spare parts when some traders and residents recognised him.

According to him, the situation escalated after he purchased the item and returned to his vehicle.

“Some people were pointing fingers at me. Some were saying something. I ignored them and went in search of the part.

“I saw the part and went back to my vehicle to fix it. The people just started gathering and shouting, ‘This is Joe Igbokwe.’ I ignored them. They started coming towards me, so I moved away and went to my friend’s shop. I was there, and my friend went to call the leadership of the market. After that, I drove away.”

When asked whether he believed the incident was politically motivated, Igbokwe answered in the affirmative.

He said, “Yes. They know I have been very vocal in our party, the APC. I was the publicity secretary for many years. We are progressives; we cannot change. I have been consistent in where I stand.”

Text except headline courtesy of PUNCH