By Ademuyiwa Balikis
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, has issued a statement following reactions to his meeting with blogger Noble Igwe and artist Uzo Njoku, popularly known as Uzo Art.
The backlash stems from the planned Owambe Lagos Party event, linked to Uzo Njoku, which some groups say misrepresents Yoruba cultural heritage.
In response, Aregbe said his attention had been drawn to what he described as misleading conversations and posts about the meeting. He stressed that his role as a public servant is not to fuel controversy but to provide guidance and solutions in ways that uphold the dignity of the Yoruba people.
“As an Omolúàbí Yoruba and a public servant, my role is not to fuel controversies but to provide diplomatic guidance and solutions that address concerns while ensuring that the dignity and cultural values of the Yorubas are not undermined,” he wrote.
Aregbe also reaffirmed that Yoruba culture is sacred and enduring, adding that he remains committed to both promoting and protecting it. He noted that Lagos is a cultural melting pot, and maintaining peace and understanding among diverse groups is essential.
He urged Lagosians and Nigerians not to be divided by misinformation or hasty assumptions, emphasizing that dialogue and understanding remain the best path to unity.
The statement is expected to calm tensions as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture continues to address concerns raised about the event.
