The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, has dismissed claims that Lagos is a no-man’s land, describing such assertions as bogus, vacuous, and lacking any empirical foundation.
Omotoso stated this at the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB), Magodo, during an event to mark World Archives Day, where he emphasized the need to protect Lagos’ heritage both ideologically and technologically.
“The battle for the protection of our heritage has to be fought on two fronts — technology and ideology,” Omotoso said.
“The second challenge is the claim that Lagos is a no-man’s land. There is no empirical fact to support this bogus claim, nor can it be validated through any record. The battle is between archivists who keep verifiable records and anarchists who make unsubstantiated claims.”
He stressed the importance of leveraging technology to make archival materials more accessible, showcasing the state’s rich history, traditions, and achievements.
According to him, Lagos must join the global trend of using digital tools to preserve and display its cultural and historical legacy.
Commending LASRAB officials for their dedication, Omotoso assured that the State Government will provide the bureau with the resources it needs to deepen archival work and counter false narratives with facts.
The event was attended by top dignitaries, including the Lagos Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro; the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal; the representative of the Oba of Lagos, Chief Lateef Aderibigbe Ajose, Opeluwa of Lagos; and Erelu Kuti of Lagos, Erelu Abiola Dosumu, among others.
