The rhythmic spirit of Lagos’ ancient traditions took physical form in the heart of the city as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu unveiled a towering Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, marking a renewed commitment to cultural preservation in the state.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Sanwo-Olu described the 32-foot monument as a powerful symbol of culture, identity and continuity, noting that while the event was modest, its cultural significance was profound.
He said the statue captures the essence of the Eyo Adimu Orisa Festival and reinforces Lagos’ status as a cradle of culture and tradition.
“This unveiling is simple, yet very significant. It is a wholesome experience that celebrates the Eyo Adimu Orisa Festival and what it represents to Lagos and our people,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu praised the creator of the monument, Mr Dotun Popoola, for deploying his artistic talent to project Lagos as a centre of creativity, history and cultural pride.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue supporting initiatives that preserve and promote the state’s rich cultural heritage for residents and visitors.
In his welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of the John Randle Centre, Mr Qudus Onikeku, explained that the monument, which stands on a six-foot base, was intentionally designed to narrate the history and cultural significance of the Eyo tradition in Lagos State.
Onikeku added that the centre was planning a documentary film on the Eyo festival as part of efforts to further document and safeguard its cultural legacy.
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The documentary, he said, would feature a respected custodian of Yoruba culture, Erelu Abiola Dosumu.
He noted that both the monument and the documentary project aligned with the centre’s mandate to function as a hub for cultural education, preservation and creative expression.
Also speaking, the Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, Erelu Abiola Dosumu, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his consistent support for cultural preservation and celebration in the state.
She also lauded his administration’s infrastructural drive, noting that cultural development flourishes best in an environment backed by strong and sustainable infrastructure.
Earlier, the artist behind the monument, Mr Dotun Popoola, described the nearly 40-foot statue as a personal and professional commitment to the promotion of culture and tradition.
He expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the opportunity and support that made the project possible.
Popoola described the monument as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Eyo tradition, adding that the artwork was designed to inspire pride, cultural awareness and continuity among present and future generations.
NAN
