Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Edo State Government has officially revoked the land previously allocated to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, following growing public discontent and objections from Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin. The controversy arose after the Central Hospital in Benin City was demolished to make way for the museum, sparking protests and concerns over transparency.
The decision came barely 24 hours after a preview exhibition at the museum on Sunday was disrupted by protesters expressing loyalty to the palace. The event, which included foreign diplomats such as ambassadors from the European Union and Germany, was forced to shut down as guests hurriedly left under heightened security.
In a revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Governor Okpebholo stated that the land, “known as Digital Plot No. 61977, Zone HI/A12/Ogboka, Benin City, in Oredo Local Government Area, measures approximately 6.210 hectares and was the site of the demolished Central Hospital,” has been reclaimed by the state in the interest of public welfare and transparency. The land is to be restored to its original public health use.
Fred Itua, aide to Governor Okpebholo, added that the administration was unaware of the foreign delegation’s visit linked to MOWAA, describing the incident as another example of the “lack of transparency” surrounding the project. Governor Okpebholo also highlighted concerns over the project’s evolution, stating, “It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution.”
The governor confirmed that a committee has been set up to investigate the project and make appropriate recommendations.
In response, MOWAA denied allegations that it claimed Benin bronzes or sought to undermine the Oba’s authority, asserting, “MOWAA holds His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II (CFR), the Oba of Benin, in the highest esteem and continues to uphold deep respect for the Benin Throne.” The museum further clarified that it never presented itself as the Benin Royal Museum to secure funding and urged authorities to verify the matter with donors.
Phillip Ihenacho, Director of MOWAA, expressed regret over the protest, stating he “hopes this moment can lead to renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large.”
This development marks a significant intervention by the Edo State Government to ensure transparency, uphold public interest, and maintain respect for the traditional authority of the Oba of Benin.
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