Reported by: L . Imafidon | Edited by: Henry Owen
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has raised concerns over the recent visit of foreign envoys to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, saying his administration was not informed about the event, which later turned violent after protesters stormed the venue. The governor expressed his surprise during a meeting with European and German ambassadors in Benin City before leading the delegation on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin.
Governor Okpebholo described the incident as another example of the “lack of transparency” that has surrounded the MOWAA project since its inception. He announced that his government had set up a committee to investigate the project’s operations, faulting the immediate past administration for not briefing him or providing documentation on its financial details, ownership, or agreements.
“Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place; that’s the truth. However, we have spoken with the Oba and gotten his side of the story,” Okpebholo said.
“The previous administration never briefed me about MOWAA nor handed over any documentation concerning the project,” he added.
The governor also criticized the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for the museum, insisting that development must prioritize people’s welfare and cultural values. He reaffirmed that Edo State welcomes foreign collaboration, but only when it is transparent and respectful of local traditions.
At the Oba’s Palace, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, accused former Governor Godwin Obaseki of attempting to “mortgage the rights of the Benin people” over their ancestral artifacts, likening the situation to the colonial injustice of 1897.
“The documents they brought for me to sign would have taken away our rights to these artifacts, and I refused,” the monarch said.
European diplomats expressed hope for improved cooperation and understanding.
EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot said, “We exchanged views in a spirit of dialogue and partnership, which is how we intend to move forward.”
German Ambassador Dr. Annett Günther added, “This wonderful place for celebrating heritage can only flourish in a peaceful and transparent environment.”
Governor Okpebholo assured both the envoys and the Benin Royal Palace that his administration remains committed to fairness, accountability, and respect for Edo’s cultural heritage, emphasizing that the MOWAA controversy will be addressed with “transparency and justice for all parties.”
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