Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Monday received two foreign envoys in Benin City amid growing protests by indigenes of Benin over the siting of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
The delegation included the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and the German Ambassador, Dr. Annett Günther.
The controversy stems from the decision of the previous administration under Governor Godwin Obaseki to locate the museum outside the Oba’s palace. Benin indigenes argue that the artifacts, looted during the British invasion of 1897, were taken directly from the palace and should therefore be housed within its grounds. They view the relocation as a slight to their ancestors, Oba Ewuare II, and the cultural traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
Governor Okpebholo told the ambassadors that his administration was neither consulted nor involved in the project’s planning or execution. He described the handling of the museum initiative as a “gross lack of transparency” by the past government.
“The project has shifted names from Benin Royal Museum to Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now MOWAA, without proper consultation with our revered traditional institution,” he said.
The governor revealed that a committee has been set up to investigate the project’s ownership structure, operational details, and financial agreements. He emphasized that while Edo welcomes international partnerships, transparency and respect for cultural heritage are non-negotiable.
Okpebholo also condemned the demolition of part of the historic Central Hospital in Benin to make way for the museum.
“We are proud of our heritage, but development must be responsible and people-centred. Why destroy a functioning hospital to build a museum?” he asked.
Later, the governor led the ambassadors on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. At the palace, he reiterated that the lack of openness surrounding the project had fueled public anger and mistrust.
The Oba shared his perspective with the delegation, underscoring the cultural significance of the artifacts and the need for proper respect in their housing.
Ambassador Mignot explained that the mission of the delegation was to pay homage to the Oba and strengthen cooperation with Edo people.
“We discussed the MOWAA project and the unfortunate incident that occurred. We exchanged views in the spirit of dialogue,” he said.
The visit marks a critical step in addressing tensions over the museum project, with stakeholders now seeking a resolution that balances cultural preservation, transparency, and responsible development.