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Yoruba socio-cultural organisations, Think Yoruba First (TYF), and Omoluabi Parapo Conservative, have submitted a petition to the Lagos State Ministry of Arts and Culture against an artist, Uzo Njoku, who goes by the handle @uzoart on X.

Njoku had announced plans to hold a cultural festival in Lagos State, an action that Yoruba people alleged was cultural appropriation for not acknowledging the Yoruba culture she drew upon.

They also accused her of bastardising the spelling of Owanbe, which she spelt as Owambe in her promo video and flyers of the show, with the theme ‘Owambe Lagos Party’.

In their letter, Omoluabi Parapo Conservative addressed the Commissioner of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, about the show scheduled to hold in Lagos from November 22, 2025, to January 24, 2026 –

“While we commend efforts to showcase Nigerian creativity and promote culture, we must draw attention to serious issues of cultural misrepresentation and appropriation that this event, in its present form, embodies: Incorrect Use of Language.

“The word ‘Owambe’ has been misspelt in the event branding. The correct Yoruba spelling is Owànbé. Such errors risk distorting the authenticity and transmission of Yoruba language and traditions,” the organisation said.

Also, Think Yoruba First organisation said their petition against Njoku has been acknowledged by the commissioner, who promised to address the situation.

“We wish to inform the general public that Hon. Toke Benson has officially received our petition regarding the cultural appropriation of Yoruba Adiirẹ, and she has assured us that the matter will be duly addressed by her office,” TYF said in a statement signed by the Secretary General, Bukola O. Adeniji.

“We urge all Yoruba sons and daughters to exercise patience, remain vigilant, and allow due process to take its course. This marks an important precedent, showing why we must never relent in protecting and preserving our cultural heritage for generations yet unborn.

The organisation appreciated all supporters and everyone who urged it to take decisive action. “Your trust in us as an institution is deeply appreciated, and we assure you that we will not let you down,” it said.

“We also acknowledge every Yoruba and our allies who raised their voices in unity to ensure that our heritage is not hijacked, ridiculed, or diminished by individuals of questionable character. We trust that the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture will carry out its due diligence and resolve this issue appropriately. We further hope that Ms. Uzo Njoku will learn from this experience and apply the very advice she once gave to others: ‘Respect the culture and values when the owners of the culture tell you that you are wrong.’

TYF lamented that it is particularly disheartening that Njoku scheduled her exhibition to coincide with Lagos State’s planned Yoruba Week.

“This act undermines and stains a week designed to showcase Yoruba civilisation to an international audience. Such interference is not only disrespectful but a mockery of a cultural celebration meant to highlight the greatness of the Yoruba people.

“We are not opposed to global inspiration drawn from our rich and enviable intangible heritage, one that has been unparalleled and comparable only to that of the great ancient Egypt. However, we demand full respect, recognition, and honour for the Yoruba race, the rightful innovators and custodians of these traditions.

“We are Yoruba. We are Ògó Aduláwọ̀—the glory and pride of the Black race. Every nation may imitate us, but they must also respect us, acknowledge us, and recognise our rightful place on the world stage,” TYF said.

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