In a momentous occasion steeped in cultural and historical significance, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, accepted the return of 119 stolen artifacts from the Government of the Netherlands on Thursday. The handover marks a significant victory in the ongoing effort to repatriate Benin Bronzes and other cultural treasures looted during the colonial era.
Oba Ewuare II attributed the successful return of the artifacts to divine intervention, expressing profound gratitude to both President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari for their unwavering support and commitment. He emphasized their crucial role in safeguarding the artifacts from potential re-looting.
“There were groups in this country believed to be an international cartel that had all sorts of conspiracy to enable them re-loot our artifacts,’’ the Oba stated, highlighting the challenges faced in securing the return.
The Oba also lauded the government of the Netherlands for their collaboration, stating that the gesture has rekindled the courage and morale of the Benin people. He further acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments in the retrieval process.
In a message to the youth, Oba Ewuare II urged them to be strong and resilient in the face of adversity, emphasizing that the return of the artifacts serves as a powerful testament to the efficacy of determination and prayer. He concluded with prayers alongside officials from the commission, expressing hope for the future return of more artifacts.
Olugbile Holloway, the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, affirmed the commission’s ongoing collaboration with the Benin Royal Palace to ensure the return of additional stolen artifacts. He noted that the 119 artifacts represent the largest single return of stolen artifacts to date.
Representing Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Musa Ikhilor, pledged the state’s commitment to collaborating with the federal government to enhance storage facilities for the artifacts. The state government has promised to construct the necessary infrastructure to ensure the preservation of these invaluable cultural treasures.
Marieke Van Bommel, the General-Director of the Wereld Museum, acknowledged the looted nature of the artifacts and reiterated the Netherlands’ policy of returning items to their rightful owners. She also pointed out the existence of other Benin collections in Europe that fall outside their jurisdiction.
