Demonstrators Disrupt Event at Nigeria's Art Institution During Stolen Artworks Row

Demonstrators interrupted a preview event at a cultural center in Nigeria that has become caught in a dispute over the return of cultural items taken during colonial occupation.

Through footage shared online, protesters could be heard shouting while foreign and local visitors were ushered out the Museum of West African Art by security personnel in Benin City.

Cultural Center Head Details Event

MOWAA's leader explained: "Protesters entered and began damaging the welcome area, where we receive visitors, then they entered forcefully the front section, where the display space is located."

Official Reaction

In a statement, the museum expressed deep gratitude to guests for their cooperation. "We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this situation may have caused," the statement read.

Cultural Center Details

MOWAA is a highly anticipated art campus comprising restoration facilities, exhibition spaces, and studios aimed at promoting dialogue around cultural works of West Africa.

The museum, which is backed by international partners as well as private donors, was originally intended to feature several of the historical artefacts – the name given to objects plundered in historical raids.

Administrative Challenges

Over one hundred fifty artefacts have been repatriated to the country over the recent period from European state museums and personal archives.

However, a rivalry between Edo state's former and current governors, who belong to opposing political groups, means that none of the bronzes will be on public display at MOWAA.

Traditional Authority

The existing leadership is allied to Oba Ewuare II, the traditional and religious head of the Edo people.

While the specific requests of the people who gathered at the cultural center were unclear, their cries appeared to be in support of the king and the existing local leadership.

Official Position

Via official channels, MOWAA clarified its independence from the state government, saying it was an independent, nonprofit institution.

The nation's cultural affairs leader, Hannatu Musawa, remarked: "This incident at MOWAA not only endangers a treasured cultural asset but also jeopardizes the tranquil setting necessary for creative interaction and the preservation of our artistic patrimony."

Societal Response

The event generated diverse responses across Nigeria, with some calling for a quick resolution as the country aims to reinforce its standing as a cultural superpower.

"This presents negative imagery for Edo state and equally for the nation," stated an artistic institution. "We express our backing with MOWAA as an self-governing institution. Whatever political issues or differences should be resolved in the interest of the people of Edo state and the country."