The Edo State Government has constituted a high-powered committee to review the legal and operational framework of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), appointing Senator Adams Oshiomhole as its chairman.
The move comes amid growing protests and petitions from indigenes of Benin and members of the Benin Royal Palace, who have voiced strong opposition to the museum project initiated by the previous administration.
In a statement issued by Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government, Governor Monday Okpebholo directed the committee to ascertain the true status of MOWAA and clarify the rights and stakes of the Benin Royal Palace and Traditional Institution in the project. The committee is expected to make recommendations to guide the government’s next steps.
The controversy stems from the decision of the immediate past administration under Godwin Obaseki to build MOWAA as the repository for artifacts recently returned from Europe. Critics argue that the artifacts, looted during the colonial invasion of Benin in 1897, should have been restored to the Oba’s Palace, their original home, rather than housed in a new museum.
Community leaders and protesters have described the construction of MOWAA as an insult to their ancestors, insisting that if a museum must be built, it should be located within the palace grounds to honor the cultural and spiritual significance of the artifacts.
Governor Okpebholo acknowledged the depth of public sentiment, noting that his administration had received numerous petitions from the Benin Royal Palace, the Traditional Council, and other stakeholders.
“This committee is a response, and in recognition of the Benin Royal Palace as the true and lawful custodian of the cultural heritage and artifacts of the Benin Kingdom,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom, while ensuring transparency, accountability, and mutual respect in all heritage-related initiatives.
The committee includes:
- Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (Rtd.) – Vice Chairman
- Lucky Imasuen – Former Edo Deputy Governor, Member
- Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu – Former Secretary to the State Government, Member
- Roland Otaru (SAN) – Edo Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Member
- Ms. Iryn Omorogiuwa – Secretary
The committee has been directed to commence work immediately and submit its findings within the shortest possible time.