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General News of Saturday, 18 January 2020

Source: Punchng

We consulted Fela’s family before removing statues –LASG

Fela Kuti, statue Fela Kuti, statue

The Lagos State Government has described as false, the news making the rounds that it has destroyed the statues of Nigerian music legend and social crusader, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and the late politician, Chief Obafemi Awolowo – both erected at the roundabout on Allen Avenue in the Ikeja area of the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, said contrary to the ‘malicious claims’, the statues were removed for the purpose of development.

Oladeinde said the need to carry out junction improvements in some identified locations necessitated the removal of street furniture, including statues of very notable personalities, art works and billboards.

The commissioner noted that the Lagos State Government held the nation’s heroes in very high esteem and would not do anything to bring down the exalted heights they attained during their lifetimes.

He said, “The Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, in a bid to finding a lasting solution to traffic gridlocks in the state, identified about 60 congestion points and have started work to improve traffic experience in five major locations.”

Oladeinde said the government duly informed and consulted the Fela Anikulapo-Kuti family before the action was taken, noting that the whole process was for the benefit of Lagos residents.

The Commissioner said the Fela statue would be relocated to the roundabout between Allen Avenue and Opebi-Toyin Street.