LAGOS, Nigeria — Joe Igbokwe, a prominent figure within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, has pushed back against social media reports that he was physically assaulted at Ladipo Market in Lagos, saying he was subjected to verbal hostility but was never touched.
Igbokwe, a former publicity secretary of the APC in Lagos State, said he had gone to the busy auto-parts market on Saturday, June 6, 2026, to purchase a vehicle spare part when traders and residents recognised him and began to gather around him.
“Some people pointed at me and made comments, but I ignored them and continued what I came to do. After getting the spare part, I went back to my vehicle to install it,” he said.
“Before long, more people gathered and began shouting, ‘This is Joe Igbokwe.’ I chose not to react. As the crowd grew and started moving closer, I left the area and went into a friend’s shop.”
He said a friend subsequently alerted market leaders, who stepped in before he was able to depart without further incident.
Igbokwe was unequivocal in denying that any physical confrontation had taken place.
“There was no mob attack. Nobody touched me. Some people were making noise and others tried to calm the situation,” he said.
A Political Motive Alleged
The APC chieftain attributed the hostility to his long association with the ruling party and his outspoken public commentary on national affairs.
“Yes, I believe it was political. People know me because I have always been vocal in the APC. I served as the party’s publicity secretary for many years and I have remained consistent in my political convictions,” he said.
He further suggested that his views on inter-ethnic relations in Nigeria may have contributed to the unfavourable reception.
“Maybe it is politics. Maybe it is because I am an APC member. Maybe it is because I do not agree with the kind of politics some people play. My belief has always been that Nigeria can only thrive when major ethnic groups work together and build strong relationships,” Igbokwe said.
Igbokwe: I’ll Shut Down Ladipo Spare Parts Market if Igbo Traders Touch Me
Video: Lagos APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe narrates the unfriendly reception and body language he experienced at Ladipo Spare Parts Market on Friday.
He went home unharmed. He also warned that if any Igbo… pic.twitter.com/zyFNFEXD12— Emeka Gift Official (@EmekaGift100) June 6, 2026
He also lamented what he described as a tendency among some to misconstrue candid political opinions as provocation, saying those who offer frank assessments are frequently branded as adversaries or saboteurs.
The incident generated considerable debate on social media, where conflicting accounts of what occurred at the market circulated widely.
Igbokwe’s version that he faced vocal antagonism but no physical harm stands in contrast to earlier reports that had described a more violent confrontation.
