The House of Representatives in Nigeria has initiated an investigation into the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State, amid concerns regarding its establishment, funding, and governance. This inquiry comes in light of fears that the museum may be under undue influence from foreign and private entities, particularly following a chaotic incident during a recent exhibition where protesters disrupted the event.
The investigation is particularly timely as Nigeria has been receiving significant numbers of repatriated Benin Bronzes from international institutions, raising questions about the proper management and safeguarding of these cultural artifacts. The House adopted a motion of urgent national importance, led by Representative Esosa Iyawe and supported by several other lawmakers, to ensure that the museum does not compromise Nigeria’s sovereignty over its cultural heritage.
Iyawe expressed concerns that the governance framework of MOWAA might allow excessive foreign influence, which contradicts the understanding that repatriated artifacts would be held in a public trust under Nigerian control. Lawmakers have called for clarity on various issues, including the museum’s legal status, donor agreements, tax waivers, and land allocations.
Co-sponsor Julius Ihonvbere emphasized the need for transparency in ownership and partnerships, warning against potential exploitation of Nigeria’s cultural assets. Omosede Igbinedion highlighted the importance of involving traditional institutions, such as the Palace of the Oba of Benin, in discussions about the museum, while Marcus Onobun raised concerns about the implications of unclear funding sources.
The House resolved to form an ad hoc committee tasked with investigating MOWAA’s funding model, governance, and the extent of government oversight to protect Nigeria’s cultural assets. The committee is expected to report its findings within four weeks.
Speaker Abbas Tajudeen reaffirmed the importance of protecting Nigeria’s heritage, stating that the investigation is essential to ensure transparency and uphold national interests. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its cultural heritage, exemplified by the recent return of two Benin Bronzes from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, which were part of a broader restitution campaign that has seen the return of numerous artifacts over recent years.
