Lagos commissioner speaks after video of her allegedly assaulting resident goes viral
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has denied assaulting a resident during a recent unscheduled tour to one of the establishments under the ministry’s jurisdiction.
The commissioner explained that non-state actors invaded the J.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History without authorization from the government.
NewsClick Nigeria reports that a viral video had on Thursday surfaced showing the the commissioner physically assaulting a man who was recording her during a meeting.
Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson, sl@pped a man for recording her.#shallipopi #toyosi #donjazzy #shanni #deborah #peterobi #NANS #california pic.twitter.com/NlbJ6D7k6t
— NewsClick Nigeria Media (@NewsClickng) January 9, 2025
The incident had since sparked mixed reactions on social media.
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 attack officials of the Ministry.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs in the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Seriki Omowunmi titled, “Re: Viral Video Circulating on Social Media. ”
The statement noted that an investigation had 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 nonstate 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 will 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.”
