The Digest:
The Oba of Lagos, Riliwanu Akiolu, has given a confused response regarding a petition that invoked his name to stop an upcoming 'Owambe' art exhibition by artist Uzo Njoku.
Key Points:
- Artist Uzo Njoku faced backlash online, led by the account 'Lagospidia', demanding her exhibition be cancelled.
- A petition with the Oba's letterhead was circulated, urging the Lagos arts commissioner to cancel the event.
- When contacted by FIJ, Oba Akiolu first seemed to confirm the letter, then denied knowledge of it.
- His response was contradictory, referencing unrelated individuals and a planned media interview.
- The 'Lagospidia' account has a history of spreading anti-Igbo narratives and was previously disowned by the state government.
- The petition called for stricter oversight of cultural exhibitions by the ministry.
- The Oba did not respond to a follow-up message with the petition attached.
Sources: FIJ
