🔗 Share this article Activists Interrupt Occasion at Nigeria's Cultural Center In the Midst of Stolen Artworks Dispute Activists halted a pre-opening gathering at a new museum in Nigeria that has become embroiled in a row over the repatriation of artworks taken during colonial occupation. "Oba ghato kpere ise" Cry heard during the gathering in Bini language Through footage shared online, demonstrators were seen loudly chanting while foreign and local visitors were ushered out the Museum of West African Art by security personnel in Benin City. Cultural Center Head Details Incident Phillip Ihenacho commented: "Activists forced their way and began damaging the welcome area, where we receive visitors, then they pushed through the front section, where the gallery is located." Institution's Statement Via a released message, the museum conveyed sincere thanks to guests for their patience. "We regret for any inconvenience this situation may have caused," officials communicated. About the Museum MOWAA is a eagerly expected artistic center comprising preservation laboratories, galleries, and workspaces aimed at encouraging interaction around art from the region. The museum, which is backed by international partners as well as philanthropic supporters, was initially planned to display several of the Benin bronzes – the name given to items taken during colonial expeditions. Administrative Challenges Numerous cultural items have been repatriated to the country over the last five years from overseas collections and private collections. However, a political competition between administrations, who belong to separate political affiliations, means that none of the bronzes will be on public display at MOWAA. Royal Influence The existing leadership is allied to Oba Ewuare II, the royal and cultural figure of the Edo people. Despite the exact requirements of the people who protested at the museum were unclear, their chants appeared to be in backing of the royal figure and the current Edo state administration. Institutional Stance In its statement, MOWAA distanced itself from the state government, saying it was an self-governing, charitable entity. Nigeria's culture minister, Hannatu Musawa, commented: "This incident at MOWAA not only risks an important artistic center but also puts at risk the calm atmosphere necessary for cultural exchange and the preservation of our artistic patrimony." Societal Response The event generated diverse responses across Nigeria, with some demanding swift resolution as the country seeks to consolidate its standing as a cultural superpower. "This presents negative imagery for Edo state and not also for Nigeria," commented a Lagos-based gallery. "We stand in support with MOWAA as an autonomous entity. All administrative concerns or differences should be resolved in the interest of the people of Edo state and the country."