Demonstrators interrupted a preview event at a new museum in Nigeria that has become embroiled in a row over the restitution of artefacts taken during colonial occupation.
"Oba ghato kpere ise"
As seen in widely distributed videos, activists were observed calling out while foreign and local visitors were guided from the Museum of West African Art by security personnel in Benin City.
Cultural Center Head Explains Incident
MOWAA's leader explained: "Demonstrators came in and began vandalising part of the reception pavilion, where we host attendees, then they entered forcefully the front section, where the display space is located."
Museum's Response
Via a released message, the museum expressed deep gratitude to guests for their patience. "We sincerely apologise for any trouble this situation may have caused," officials communicated.
Cultural Center Details
MOWAA is a much-awaited cultural complex comprising restoration facilities, exhibition spaces, and studios aimed at fostering exchanges around west African art.
The museum, which is supported by European nations as well as individual contributors, was originally intended to feature several of the cultural treasures – the name given to artefacts looted by British soldiers.
Governance Issues
Over one hundred fifty artefacts have been returned to Nigeria over the last five years from European state museums and private collections.
However, a rivalry between Edo state's former and current governors, who belong to different political parties, means that not a single piece will be on view for visitors at MOWAA.
Cultural Leadership
The existing leadership is supportive of Oba Ewuare II, the spiritual and cultural leader of the Edo people.
Despite the exact requirements of the people who protested at the museum were not clear, their chants appeared to be in favor of the traditional leader and the current Edo state administration.
Official Position
In its statement, MOWAA distanced itself from the state government, saying it was an autonomous, non-profit organization.
The nation's cultural affairs leader, Hannatu Musawa, remarked: "The described interruption at MOWAA not only threatens a valuable cultural institution but also threatens the peaceful environment necessary for cultural exchange and the preservation of our artistic patrimony."
Societal Response
The situation prompted varied opinions across Nigeria, with some calling for a quick resolution as the country works to strengthen its standing as a cultural superpower.
"This presents negative imagery for Edo state and not also for Nigeria," remarked a cultural organization. "We express our backing with MOWAA as an independent body. Whatever political issues or differences let it be sorted out in the advantage of residents of Edo state and the country."
