Veteran artist and retired museum curator, Pa Emmanuel Abejide, has clarified the controversy surrounding his missing artworks, explicitly exonerating the former First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, from any personal involvement in the incident.
In a recent interview, the 86-year-old artist, who served in the national museum for nearly three decades, addressed the administrative lapses that led to the confusion following the 2020 "Steady Strides" exhibition. He emphasized that the protocols of her office would have made it impossible for her to be personally responsible for the movement or custody of the pieces.
Speaking directly on the matter, Pa Abejide stated: "From what I know, after her selecting those works, she left the venue. And she wouldn't know what was happening behind. So she couldn't have carried my work to anywhere. Particularly when it was clear that no work was carried to her office. If there is any way the publication has affected her image, I am sorry that it happened that way, but it was not intended."
Pa Abejide noted that as a veteran with decades of experience in museum administration (1971–1999), he understands that it was not the First Lady’s duty to handle the logistics of the artworks. He explained that a panel was supposed to evaluate the works for payment a process that seemingly failed at the administrative level rather than through any personal fault of Erelu Fayemi.
The artist expressed deep regret over any negative light the situation may have cast on the former First Lady, whom he described as a "mentor" and a supporter of the arts. He recalled her role in his recognition as an "icon and a legend" during her time in office.
"I would now be an ingrate if I should now think I should drag her name into the mud," Abejide said, reaffirming his respect for her contributions to the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism.
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