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.
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