Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to preserving the integrity of Benin culture and tradition. He declared that no actions, whether public or private, will be permitted to undermine the cultural authority of the Benin Kingdom during his tenure.
The Governor made this statement on Wednesday while addressing a large group of peaceful protesters, which included palace chiefs, civil society organizations, youth groups, and concerned citizens of Edo, who gathered at the Government House to call for an immediate halt to the planned opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
Governor Okpebholo acknowledged the protesters’ concerns as legitimate and emphasized that his administration shares their commitment to protecting Benin culture, heritage, and ancestral symbols from desecration or exploitation.
“Our culture is our identity, and I assure you that this administration will never allow its desecration,” he stated. “We know where these artifacts were taken from. Now that they have been returned, they must be restored to their rightful place. His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, is the true custodian of our heritage, and nothing will be done to undermine that truth.”
The Governor praised the protesters for their civility and discipline, noting that their peaceful demonstration reflected the dignity for which the Benin Kingdom is globally renowned.
He announced that the Minister of Culture and Tourism had reached out to him and would soon visit Edo State for further discussions on the matter.
“I will meet with His Royal Majesty to discuss this issue thoroughly,” Governor Okpebholo assured the crowd. “Please, be assured that nothing belonging to the people of Edo will be taken away from them. Give me time to resolve this matter in a way that honors our history and our Monarch.”
The protesters, representing a wide array of Benin socio-cultural organizations, expressed significant concern over the planned inauguration of MOWAA on November 11, 2025, arguing that it was premature, disrespectful, and potentially illegal.
Comrade Osazee Amas-Edobor, speaking on behalf of the group, stated that the museum project is still under consideration at the Edo State House of Assembly, and any attempt to commission it without legislative clarity and royal approval would be an affront to the State and the Throne.
“We are here today because the proposed opening of MOWAA is unacceptable,” Amas-Edobor declared. “If commissioned under these circumstances, it would disrespect the State Government, the Edo State House of Assembly, and, most importantly, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II.”
He further alleged that MOWAA was initially intended to be the Royal Museum, a project meant to serve the Benin Palace, but was altered through what he described as a questionable “Legacy Trust” initiative during the Godwin Obaseki administration.
According to him, funds initially earmarked for the Royal Museum were diverted, while the Central Hospital, a crucial public health facility, was demolished to make way for a project that has since caused widespread concern among traditional and cultural stakeholders.
“Benin people do not insult elders,” he emphasized. “Our protest is to preserve our heritage and to ensure that what belongs to the Oba is not misappropriated in any form.”
Despite the concerns raised, the group acknowledged Governor Okpebholo’s transformative governance over the past year, praising him for restoring public confidence through impactful reforms and people-oriented leadership.
“Your Excellency, we commend your developmental strides across all sectors,” Amas-Edobor stated. “Edo people are beginning to enjoy the dividends of true democracy.”
In his closing remarks, Governor Okpebholo urged the demonstrators to return peacefully to their communities, assuring them that his administration would address the issue with fairness, firmness, and unwavering loyalty to Benin cultural sovereignty.
“Our heritage is sacred,” he concluded. “And as long as I remain Governor, it will be protected with honour , wisdom, and resolute leadership.”
