Lagos Market Incident: Igbokwe Alleges Political Motive

Joe Igbokwe, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress, has come forward with his account of the incident that occurred at the Ladipo Market in Lagos on Saturday. According to Igbokwe, the hostility he faced was not a physical attack, but rather a manifestation of the political tensions that exist in the country. In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Igbokwe stated that he was not assaulted during the incident, contrary to reports circulating on social media. Instead, he claimed that the traders and residents at the market were merely making noise and that some individuals attempted to caution them. Igbokwe believes that the hostility directed towards him stems from his affiliation with the APC and his outspoken views on national issues. He noted that his comments and advice are often misconstrued as being antagonistic, despite his intentions being genuine. Igbokwe recounted the events leading up to the incident, stating that he had visited the market to purchase spare parts. Upon recognizing him, some traders and residents began pointing fingers and making comments. The situation escalated after he purchased the item and returned to his vehicle, with the crowd gathering and shouting his name. Igbokwe ignored them and moved away, seeking refuge in a friend's shop. He later drove away after his friend went to call the market leadership. When asked if he believed the incident was politically motivated, Igbokwe responded in the affirmative, stating that his vocal stance as a member of the APC and his consistency in his views may have contributed to the hostility he faced.