November 11, (THEWILL) — Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revoked the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) previously issued to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) by the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In a revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Governor Okpebholo said the action was taken “in the overriding public interest,” citing his powers under Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Act of 1978.
He stated that the land earlier allocated to the Edo Museum of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE has now been reclaimed by the state government and will revert to its original use as the Benin Central Hospital.
Meanwhile, MOWAA has issued a clarification addressing what it described as “misconceptions” regarding its mission, ownership structure, and cultural role in Benin City.
In a statement signed by its Director, Mr. Phillip Ihenacho, the institution reaffirmed its respect for the Benin monarchy, noting that it holds the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, in the highest regard.
“MOWAA remains committed to respectful engagement and to working collectively for the preservation and advancement of West Africa’s cultural heritage,” the statement read.
The museum also denied claims that it had misrepresented itself as the Benin Royal Museum to secure funding, urging authorities and stakeholders to verify its records and correspondence with donors.
Additionally, the Director of the MOWAA Institute, Ms. Ore Disu, in a separate statement, restated the organisation’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding and maintaining goodwill within the community.
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