Edo State Government and management of the Museum for West African Arts (MOWAA) have settled their rift.
The $100m MOWAA project would be restored to its original and rightful purpose which is cultural edifice envisioned to honour the heritage of the Benin Kingdom.
Governor Monday Okpebholo made this known when he received Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, at the Government House in Benin City.
Okpebholo described the visit as a defining moment of unity between the State Government and the Benin Monarchy.
He said relationship between both institutions remained the foundation of Edo’s identity and pride.
Governor Okpebholo said his administration’s would work with the Benin Palace, the Federal Government, and international partners to ensure the return of all looted Benin artifacts.
He pledged to facilitate the establishment of the Benin Royal Museum as a global centre for cultural preservation and historical education.
“Your Majesty,” the Governor said, “I wanted to make a speech, but the video we just watched, where former Governor Godwin Obaseki promised to build the Benin Royal Museum as a gift to you, has already made it for me. The issue of the Museum of West African Art is over. It was a birthday gift to Your Majesty, and it will be restored as such.
“I am glad that the Attorney-General, our political leaders, and other stakeholders are here to witness this. I will take this video to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has immense respect for culture and is a personal friend of the Palace. I am confident that Mr. President will not support any act that undermines the dignity of the Benin Kingdom.
“As we approach our first anniversary in office on November 12,” he noted, “we do so with gratitude for Your Majesty’s guidance and blessings. This administration remains devoted to securing our communities, empowering our youth, and preserving our cultural heritage. Edo’s strength lies in her traditions and we will uphold them.”
On his part, Oba Ewuare II, said he prayed for a Governor who would put food on the table of the people, develop the state, and respect traditional institutions
The Oba commended the Governor for restoration of the Benin Traditional Council’s full statutory allocation, the return of the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, and notable improvements in infrastructure, security, and land administration.
On the MOWAA controversy, Oba Ewuare II clarified that the structure was originally conceived as the Benin Royal Museum; a vision supported by foreign donors and intended to house the repatriated artifacts looted during the 1897 British invasion of Benin.
“The project was meant to be the Benin Royal Museum,” the Oba declared. “I fully support my people who protested against the attempted opening of MOWAA. The House of Assembly should continue its investigation into its funding and ownership. The world recognizes it as the Benin Royal Museum, and it must remain so.”
The monarch further urged Governor Okpebholo to revisit his proposed agricultural industrial hubs across Edo State to boost food production, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.
Okpebholo named former Governor Adams Oshiomhole as Chairman of a Committee ascertain the true legal and operational status of MOWAA as well as clarify the position, rights, and stake of the Benin Royal Palace and Traditional Institution in the museum project
The Committee, according to a statement by Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, was set up due to series of protests and petitions from members of the public, including eminent individuals from the Benin Royal Palace and Traditional Council, concerning the operations and governance structure of the MOWAA.
Other members of the committee are General Cecil Esekhaigbe (Rtd), Lucky Imasuen, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyam, Roland Itoyah Otaru, and Barr. Iryn Omorogiuwa to serve as Secretary.
“The Committee is expected to commence work immediately and submit its findings and recommendations within the shortest possible time.
