Janefrances Chibuzor
The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has addressed the controversy surrounding a viral video depicting an incident at the J.K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, the Director of Public Affairs, Seriki Omowunmi, refuted claims circulating online, emphasising the need to set the record straight.
According to Omowunmi, the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, visited the Centre on an official inspection mission. During the visit, it was discovered that the Centre Director, Qudus Onikeku, had been operating an unauthorised canteen within the premises without the Ministry’s knowledge or approval. The Commissioner, in line with her oversight duties, ordered the closure and eviction of the establishment.
“The Honourable Commissioner was met with violent resistance from Mr. Onikeku, who directed his team to physically attack Ministry officials. This situation escalated when non-state actors, unauthorized to participate in the meeting, forcibly entered and began recording proceedings without consent,” Omowunmi explained.
Omowunmi stressed that the viral video misrepresents the incident, portraying a false narrative. “At no point did Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka assault anyone. In fact, a senior female member of her team was physically assaulted by the non-state actors. The video was deliberately posted to blackmail and distort the facts,” she added.
The Ministry has since launched an investigation into the incident to ensure that appropriate actions are taken. Omowunmi assured the public of the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and effective management of all its facilities.
“The Ministry will continue to uphold its standards of excellence and accountability. We urge the public to disregard any misrepresentation and remain confident in our commitment to serve Lagos State and its citizens,” Omowunmi concluded.
The Ministry reaffirmed that the Honourable Commissioner, Benson-Awoyinka, remains committed to her duties and will continue to execute her responsibilities diligently, ensuring the efficient management of cultural and tourism assets in Lagos State.
