Why Igbo regards Lagos as “No Man’s Land”

The concept of Lagos being a “no man’s land” is a controversial and heavily debated issue in Nigeria, particularly between the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups. 

While the Igbo have historically laid claim to Lagos as a city that belongs to no particular ethnic group, the Yoruba vehemently disagree with this assertion.

To understand why the Igbo regard Lagos as a no man’s land, it is important to look at the history of the city. Lagos, which was originally a small fishing village, grew to become a major center of commerce and trade during the 19th century. This was due to its strategic location on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, which made it a hub for maritime trade with Europe and other parts of Africa.

As Lagos grew in importance, it became a melting pot of various ethnic groups from across Nigeria and beyond. Many Igbo traders and entrepreneurs flocked to Lagos to take advantage of its booming economy, and they soon established a significant presence in the city. Over time, the Igbo became one of the largest ethnic groups in Lagos, alongside the Yoruba and other groups.

The Igbo came to regard Lagos as a no man’s land because they saw it as a city where no one ethnic group could claim sole ownership. According to them, Lagos belonged to all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background. This belief was further strengthened by the fact that Lagos was the capital of Nigeria during the colonial era, and it continued to be the commercial and economic hub of the country after independence.

However, the Yoruba strongly disagree with the Igbo’s claim to Lagos as a no man’s land. They argue that Lagos has always been a Yoruba city, and that their ancestors have lived in the area for centuries. According to Yoruba tradition, Lagos was founded by a prince of the Olofin dynasty, who established the city as a center of trade and commerce.

The Yoruba also point to the fact that they are the largest ethnic group in Lagos, and that they have played a significant role in the city’s development and growth. Many prominent Yoruba politicians, businesspeople, and cultural icons hail from Lagos, further cementing the city’s Yoruba identity.

In recent years, tensions between the Igbo and Yoruba over the ownership of Lagos have escalated, with both sides making strong and often inflammatory statements. Some Igbo groups have called for the creation of an autonomous region for the Igbo in Lagos, while some Yoruba groups have threatened to forcefully eject Igbo residents from the city.

Despite these tensions, Lagos remains a cosmopolitan city that is home to people from all parts of Nigeria and beyond. The city’s success as a center of commerce and industry has made it a coveted prize for many ethnic groups, and the debate over its ownership is likely to continue for many years to come.