Why we removed Awolowo, Fela’ statues – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed the reasons why the government removed the statues of former premier of the defunct Western region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the Afrobeat king, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

Sanwo-Olu said the need to allow free flow of traffic in Ikeja and its environs necessitated the removal of the statues.



The governor also  said the removal was in the best interest of Lagosians.

Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, told newsmen on Thursday that the statues were removed for the purpose of development.




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 has started work to improve traffic experienced in five major locations.”

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

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

“We are in the process of erecting the beautiful work of art, depicting Fela Anikulapo-Kuti at the Opebi-Toyin Street junction.

“The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is also working on a befitting location to erect the old Obafemi Awolowo statue.”