Nigerian Govt Presents Looted Artefacts Returned By Germany To Oba Of Benin....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a historic and culturally significant event, the Nigerian Federal Government has officially handed over two looted artefacts returned by Germany to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, in Benin City. The ceremony, which took place on May 18, 2024, marks a poignant moment in the ongoing efforts to reclaim and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

The artefacts, a bronze Royal Stool (Ekete) and a wooden Royal Stool, were originally looted from the Oba’s Palace during the British punitive expedition of 1897, which saw numerous priceless objects taken from Benin. Historical records indicate that these particular pieces were crafted during the reigns of Oba Eresoyen and Oba Esigie, several centuries ago.

The Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Mr. Olugbile Holloway, formally presented the artefacts to the Benin monarch in a ceremony at his palace. The artefacts had been kept in the custody of the NCMM since their return to Nigeria in 2022.

In his address, Holloway reaffirmed the commitment of the NCMM to collaborate closely with the Benin Royal Court to enhance and display Edo heritage. He highlighted the gradual return of Benin Bronzes and other artworks looted by colonial powers, emphasizing the global significance of these pieces.

“What you see before us were originally taken away from the Royal family in 1897. We have a stool made of bronze and a wooden stool. I speak for every member of my team to say that we remain loyal to the Royal Court. And if there is anything we can do, we will do to support this laudable initiative. This heritage is not just Benin heritage, but Nigeria’s heritage. When we speak of Benin heritage, there is nobody that doesn’t know the great works of ours,” Holloway stated.

The Oba of Benin, visibly moved by the return of the artefacts, expressed his gratitude to the German Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the NCMM leadership for their roles in the restitution process. In a display of cultural pride and joy, the Oba danced to traditional Benin music and offered prayers to Almighty God and his ancestors.

In a symbolic and historic gesture, the monarch sat on one of the returned royal stools during the ceremony, marking the artefacts’ reintegration into their rightful cultural and historical context.

This event underscores the importance of cultural restitution and the ongoing global efforts to return looted artefacts to their countries of origin. It also highlights the collaborative spirit between nations and institutions in preserving and honoring cultural heritage.