MOWAA Controversy: Okpebholo Says He Was Not Informed of EU, German Envoys’ Visit to Edo

Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State, has expressed surprise over the recent visit of a foreign delegation, including European Union (EU) and German ambassadors, to the state for the opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA). The event, which was expected to celebrate cultural preservation and international cooperation, was overshadowed by protests and confusion surrounding protocol and communication lapses.

Governor Okpebholo, speaking at the Government House in Benin City on Monday while receiving the delegation, said he was not informed about the visit or the museum’s planned opening ceremony. “I was taken aback when I heard that a delegation of foreign ambassadors was in Edo for such a significant event without any formal communication to the state government,” he said.

The delegation, which included Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, and Annett Günther, the German Ambassador, was in the state to attend the preview events for MOWAA before protesters disrupted the occasion. The protest forced the evacuation of guests and the immediate suspension of all scheduled activities at the museum premises.

Protesters Disrupt MOWAA Event, Demand Royal Recognition

Monday Okpebholo’s reaction came a day after protesters stormed the MOWAA complex, chanting war songs and demanding that the facility be renamed the Benin Royal Museum. The demonstration, which reportedly involved traditionalists and local youth groups, reflected growing tensions over ownership, representation, and the historical narrative of Benin cultural artifacts.

The protesters argued that the museum’s name and management structure sidelined the Benin royal institution — the traditional custodian of the kingdom’s heritage. They maintained that the artifacts being repatriated from European countries should be returned directly to the Oba’s palace and preserved under the royal family’s authority rather than through an independent museum body.

Governor Okpebholo noted that while the state supports initiatives aimed at cultural preservation, all such projects must respect traditional institutions and follow due process. “Edo is a land of history and culture,” he said, “but we must ensure that every stakeholder, especially the palace, is duly carried along in matters concerning our collective heritage.”

Governor Mediates Between Delegation and Benin Palace

Monday Okpebholo later led the European delegation on a courtesy visit to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II. The visit was seen as an effort to ease tensions and reaffirm cooperation among the state government, the palace, and international partners engaged in cultural projects within Edo.

During the meeting, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of mutual respect and collaboration, stating that sustainable partnerships depend on transparency and acknowledgment of local authorities. He assured the ambassadors that the state remains committed to promoting tourism and preserving heritage but would also ensure that such efforts align with traditional and community interests.

The MOWAA project, envisioned as a world-class cultural and research center, has faced scrutiny from local stakeholders who believe it does not adequately represent the interests of the Benin Kingdom. The recent controversy has reignited debates over the ownership and custodianship of returned Benin bronzes and other historical artifacts.