Prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Joe Igbokwe, has broken his silence on reports that he was physically attacked at the popular Ladipo Market in Lagos, insisting that the incident involved only verbal hostility from some individuals.

Reacting to reports circulating on social media, Igbokwe said he was neither assaulted nor injured during the encounter. However, he acknowledged that a crowd gathered around him and shouted after recognising him.

Speaking on the incident, the former Lagos APC spokesperson alleged that the reaction was politically motivated, linking it to his long-standing association with the ruling party and his outspoken views on national issues.

“There was no mob attack. Nobody touched me. Some people were making noise and others tried to calm the situation,” he said.

According to Igbokwe, his political positions and public commentary may have contributed to the hostility he experienced.

“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,” he stated.

The APC stalwart also lamented what he described as some people’s tendency to misinterpret advice or constructive criticism as hostility.

Drawing from historical experiences, he said individuals who offer candid opinions are often unfairly labelled enemies or saboteurs.

Recounting the events of Saturday, Igbokwe explained that he had visited Ladipo Market to purchase a vehicle spare part when some traders and residents noticed his presence.

He said the atmosphere changed after he completed his purchase and returned to his vehicle.

“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.

“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.

According to him, his friend subsequently contacted market leaders, who intervened before he eventually left the market without further incident.

Asked whether he believed the development was politically driven, Igbokwe said there was little doubt in his mind.

“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 added.

The incident sparked widespread discussion on social media, with varying accounts emerging about what transpired at the market. However, Igbokwe maintains that while he encountered hostility from some individuals, there was no physical attack. (Sunday Tribune, excluding headline)