By Ademola Adekusibe
September 13, 2025
The Lagos State Government and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have come under fire after Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, was forced to issue a clarification following widespread outrage over his description of Lagos as a “melting pot.”
The remark, which critics say downplays the city’s Yoruba foundation, sparked anger among cultural advocates who accused the government of backing attempts to dilute Yoruba identity.
In his clarification, Aregbe insisted Lagos remains “undeniable, indisputable and eternal Yoruba land.”
“Lagos is Yoruba land. This is undeniable, indisputable and eternal. While it is a city of opportunities that has welcomed people from across Nigeria and beyond, those who thrive on its soil must acknowledge the hospitality of the Yoruba people who built and continue to sustain its cultural foundation which remains unbreakable,” he stated.
He explained that his earlier use of the phrase “melting pot” was meant only to describe Yoruba tolerance and accommodating spirit, stressing that such hospitality should not be taken for granted or weaponized against the people.
However, the clarification has not quelled public anger. Many Yoruba defenders recalled Aregbe’s earlier meeting with Noble Igwe and controversial artist Uzoart, whose past remarks were seen as offensive to Yoruba culture. They argue that the Sanwo-Olu government, by granting them audience, has emboldened those accused of disrespecting the very heritage the administration claims to protect.
Reaffirming his cultural loyalty, Aregbe declared:
“Owanbe, in any form, is not borrowed; it is Yoruba culture, a point I made clear to my visitors. As a thoroughbred Yoruba man, I stand firmly against any distortion or exploitation of our culture and I reaffirm my commitment to defend the Yoruba cultural heritage.”
Despite this, critics say the damage is already done. They question why the APC-led Lagos government allowed its officials to entertain figures accused of disparaging Yoruba traditions, warning that the episode exposes deeper cracks in the protection of Yoruba identity under the current administration.
