The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has reacted to a viral video that surfaced online, shedding light on an incident at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.
In a statement received by Lagos Panorama on Thursday signed by Seriki Omowunmi, Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the Ministry denied claims of wrongdoing against its Commissioner, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and revealed shocking details surrounding the incident.
The Ministry indicated that Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka was carrying out an official inspection of the Centre when she detected an unauthorised canteen operated by the Centre’s Director, Qudus Onikeku.
The Commissioner questioned the validity of the establishment and initiated its closure. However, events took a dramatic turn when Onikeku allegedly refused to comply with the directive and involved a group of unidentified individuals.
The statement read “These non-state actors, neither recognised by the Lagos State Government nor authorised to attend the meeting, barged into the premises and began recording the proceedings on the orders of the Centre Director”.
The Ministry strongly condemned the recording, calling it a breach of protocol, and accused the individuals of assaulting a senior female Ministry official during the scuffle.
Contrary to the narrative portrayed in the viral video, the Ministry emphasised that Mrs Benson-Awoyinka did not assault anyone.
The Commissioner’s firm stance against the unauthorised recording and the participation of unrecognised individuals sparked tension, escalating the situation captured in the now-viral footage.
The Ministry described the video as an attempt to blackmail the Commissioner and distort the facts.
In a bid to address the matter, the Ministry has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
“Appropriate actions will be taken to ensure accountability and uphold the integrity of our operations,” the statement added.
Mrs Benson-Awoyinka reiterated her commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in managing Lagos State’s cultural and tourism assets.
The Ministry has urged the public to disregard the false narrative circulating online, reaffirming its dedication to efficient service delivery and the promotion of Lagos State’s rich cultural heritage.
