November 10, (THEWILL) — Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed surprise over the recent visit of European diplomats to Benin City for activities related to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
THEWILL earlier reported that tension erupted on Sunday at the Museum after violent protesters invaded the facility, vandalised properties, and ordered international investors and tourists to vacate the site. The incident occurred during a closed-door preview for investors and cultural partners, prompting a rapid police response to prevent further escalation.
The protest followed growing tension between the MOWAA management and traditional authorities in Benin over the rightful custodianship of the historic Benin Bronzes, which are artefacts looted by British troops during the 1897 invasion of the Benin Kingdom.
Speaking on Monday, when he received a delegation of European envoys, led by the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gautier Mignot, at the Government House in Benin City, Okpebholo said his administration was not informed about the visit of the envoys.
However, Mignot, accompanied by the German Ambassador, Dr Annett Günther, was later escorted by the Governor on a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.
Speaking at the palace, Governor Okpebholo described the visit as yet another reflection of the “lack of transparency” that has characterised the MOWAA project from inception. He said the development once again highlighted the need for full disclosure and accountability in matters involving Edo’s cultural heritage.
“We are here with the Ambassadors of the EU and Germany, and their colleagues from the Netherlands and Belgium, to pay homage to His Royal Majesty. They mentioned areas of collaboration and referred to what happened yesterday, but honestly, I had no knowledge that such an event was scheduled. That’s the truth. I have, however, listened to His Majesty and received his perspective”, he said.
The Governor revealed that his administration had constituted a special committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the MOWAA project and make recommendations on the way forward.
“The committee will review all aspects of the project and provide a full report on its findings”, he stated.
Earlier at the Government House, during his meeting with the European delegation, Governor Okpebholo criticised what he called a “gross lack of transparency” in the handling of the MOWAA initiative by the immediate past administration.
“The entire controversy around MOWAA stems from a lack of openness by the previous government. It is puzzling how the project transitioned 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 consultation or clarity, especially with our revered traditional institution”, he said.
The Governor stressed that his government received no documentation or briefing regarding the project’s ownership structure, finances, or agreements.
“Nothing was handed over to me. I know nothing about its transactions, funding, or contracts. Even His Royal Majesty has voiced serious concern over the entire process”, he said.
Okpebholo, who reiterated his administration’s commitment to partnership with international organisations, insisted that transparency and respect for the Benin Kingdom must remain non-negotiable.
“We welcome genuine collaboration with foreign partners, but it must be transparent and must honour our culture and traditions”, he declared.
Governor Okpebholo also condemned the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for the museum project.
“Why destroy a hospital to build a museum?. We take pride in our heritage, but development must be responsible and people-oriented”, he emphasised.
EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot, while addressing journalists after the visit, explained that the European delegation came to strengthen the partnership and pay homage to the Oba of Benin.
“We came to present our respects to His Royal Majesty and discuss ways to deepen cooperation with Edo State. We also discussed the MOWAA project and recent unfortunate developments. We exchanged views in a spirit of dialogue and partnership, which is how we intend to proceed”, he stated.
Mignot clarified that the European Union as an institution has no direct stake in the MOWAA project, although some EU member states, including Germany, are involved as partners.
In her remarks, German Ambassador, Dr Annett Günther, commended both Governor Okpebholo and Oba Ewuare II for their hospitality, reaffirming Germany’s long-standing relations with Edo State in areas of migration management, youth empowerment, and cultural heritage.
Oba Ewuare II, in his address, expressed displeasure over the handling of the MOWAA project by the former administration, accusing ex-Governor, Godwin Obaseki, of attempting to undermine the Benin people’s rights to their ancestral artefacts.
“It feels like history is trying to repeat itself. Our ancestors suffered during the 1897 British invasion, and it is unjust for such manipulation to occur again. The documents they asked me to sign would have taken away our rights to our artefacts, and I refused”, the Oba lamented.
Governor Okpebholo assured that his administration would ensure fairness, transparency, and respect for all stakeholders in resolving the MOWAA controversy.
“Edo belongs to us all. Our culture and heritage must be protected, not politicised. We are open to genuine collaboration, but only in the light of transparency and respect for our traditional institutions”, he said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
