Protesters Disrupt Grand Launch of Museum of West African Art in Benin City
Benin City, Nigeria — A preview event at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City was abruptly disrupted on Sunday as protesters stormed the venue, forcing a halt to its scheduled opening.
According to the museum’s director, the protestors entered with wooden bats, vandalised parts of the reception pavilion and exhibition area, and caused several hours of delay before guests — including donors and international visitors — were escorted away safely.
The museum had planned an official opening on Tuesday. However, in light of the unrest, that date has now been postponed indefinitely.
What triggered the unrest?
The protest is rooted in a longstanding dispute over the control and custodianship of the Benin Bronzes — artefacts taken from the Benin Kingdom during a British colonial raid in 1897. The Oba Ewuare II of Benin and Edo‑State officials have clashed over whether the Royal Palace or the new museum should hold the bronzes and related heritage assets.
Governor Monday Okpebholo declared on Friday that MOWAA would revert to its original concept as the “Benin Royal Museum,” a project meant to serve both the Palace and public interests. He also announced a special committee to review donations, partnership structures and the rights of the Royal Institution.
Wider significance
Cultural experts say the incident threatens Nigeria’s growing ambition to become a global hub for West African art and heritage. The disruption draws attention to the complexities of repatriation, local cultural governance and international collaboration. The country has recently received large returns of the Benin Bronzes from European institutions.
Immediate consequences
-
The Edo State Police Command confirmed it intervened, evacuated guests and restored order. MOWAA management issued a statement that it is an independent non‑profit institution, with no financial interest from former Governor Obaseki, and urged the public to avoid the museum campus until further notice.
-
The planned opening is on hold as stakeholders meet and consult on the museum’s future and its relationship with the Palace.