Governor Okpebholo Vows to Protect Benin Cultural Heritage
Palace chiefs, civil society groups, youth bodies, and concerned citizens of Edo State on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest to the Government House, Benin City, demanding an immediate halt to the planned opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
The protesters alleged that the museum, initially conceived as a Royal Museum to serve the Benin Palace, was converted into a private entity under former Governor Godwin Obaseki through a controversial “Legacy Trust” initiative. They further expressed outrage that the project was built on the land where the Edo Central Hospital once stood, and that funds meant for public development were diverted to finance it.
Addressing the demonstrators, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to preserving and defending the sanctity of Benin culture and tradition.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo declared that no project, public or private, would be allowed to undermine the cultural authority of the Benin Kingdom.
“Our culture is our identity, and I assure you that this administration will never allow its desecration,” the Governor said. “We know where these artifacts were taken from. Now that they have been returned, they must be restored to their rightful place. His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, remains the true custodian of our heritage, and nothing will be done to undermine that truth.”
The Governor commended the protesters for their peaceful and orderly conduct, describing their civility as a reflection of the dignity for which the Benin Kingdom is globally admired. He also disclosed that the Minister of Culture and Tourism had contacted him and would be visiting Edo State to engage further on the issue.
“I will meet with His Royal Majesty to discuss this matter thoroughly,” he assured. “Nothing belonging to the people of Edo will be taken from them. Give me time to resolve this in a way that honours our history and our Monarch.”
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Comrade Osazee Amas-Edobor stated that the group’s protest was driven by concern for the preservation of Edo’s cultural identity and respect for the Benin Throne. He warned that proceeding with the planned inauguration of MOWAA on November 11, 2025, without legislative and royal clearance would constitute a grave affront to both the State and the Palace.
“We are here because the proposed opening of MOWAA is unacceptable,” Amas-Edobor said. “If commissioned under these conditions, it would be a sign of disrespect to the Edo State Government, the House of Assembly, and most importantly, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II.”
He emphasized that the protest was not an act of rebellion but a duty to safeguard Benin’s cultural sovereignty. “Benin people do not insult elders,” he added. “Our protest is to ensure that what belongs to the Oba and to Edo people is not misappropriated in any form.”
The protesters also commended Governor Okpebholo for his people-focused leadership and reforms, noting that his administration has restored public confidence and ushered in a new era of development.
In his closing remarks, Governor Okpebholo urged the demonstrators to remain calm and return peacefully to their communities. “Our heritage is sacred,” he said. “And as long as I remain Governor, it will be protected with honour, wisdom, and resolute leadership.”
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