By Lateef Odegbenle
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has debunked a viral video indicating she assaulted a resident, saying non- state actors invaded J.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History without authorization from the State Government.
A viral video showed Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, physically assaulting a man who was recording her during a meeting.
The incident sparked divided opinions, with some supporting Benson’s actions and others condemning her behaviour as excessive.
The Commissioner however stated that the non-state actors who are neither recognized by the Lagos State Government nor authorized to attend the meeting came in without permission.
She alleged that the Centre Director, Qudus Onikeku, was illegally operating a canteen within the premises without the knowledge and approval of the Ministry.
She therefore questioned the presence of the establishment and initiated an eviction that the Centre Director violently resisted and had his team attacked officials of the Ministry.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs in the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Seriki Omowunmi titled, “Re: Viral Video Circulating on Social Media. ” noting that an investigation has been ordered into the occurrence, and appropriate actions would be taken.
The statement read, “The attention of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media regarding an incident at the J.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. It is imperative to set the records straight and clarify the events that led to the said video.
“The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has the statutory responsibility of oversight over all facilities under the Ministry’s purview. In line with this mandate, she embarked on an inspection visit to the J.Randle Centre.
“During the inspection, it was discovered that the Centre Director , Qudus Onikeku, was illegally operating a canteen within the premises without the knowledge and approval of the Ministry. This prompted Mrs Benson-Awoyinka to question the presence of the establishment and initiated an eviction that the Centre Director violently resisted and had his team attack officials of the Ministry.
“The non-state actors who are neither recognized by the Lagos State Government nor authorized to attend the meeting, who accompanied the Centre Director, barged in while he ordered them to record the proceedings. This, the Honourable Commissioner objected to. It must be emphasized that recording any meeting without the consent of the presiding authority is unacceptable and a breach of protocol.
For clarity, Mrs Benson Awoyinka did not assault anyone, instead a senior female member of her team was physically assaulted by the non state actors which then escalated as seen in the viral video depicting a totally false narrative. The video posted ostensibly to blackmail her speaks for itself.
The Honourable Commissioner maintained her stance that unauthorized persons should not participate in the meeting or record its discussions, which is in line with standard administrative procedures.
“An investigation has been ordered into the occurrence, and appropriate actions would be taken.
“The Ministry remains committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and the efficient management of all its facilities. The Honourable Commissioner will continue to discharge her duties in the best interest of Lagos State and its citizens.
“We urge members of the public to disregard any misrepresentation of the incident and focus on the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to excellence in service delivery.”
