In an effort to address lingering issues from the previous administration and strengthen relations between the government and the people, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has fully restored the statutory rights of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II.
This includes affirming the Oba’s ownership of ancient artefacts looted from the Benin palace during the infamous 1897 Benin Massacre by British colonial forces.
The governor also reversed the decision by the previous administration to revoke the concession of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre, which had been converted into a motor park. Governor Okpebholo directed that the facility be restored for its original cultural purpose.
Announcing the decisions in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to upholding the rights and privileges of the Benin Monarch.
“This administration also hereby abolishes the new traditional councils in Edo South created by the last administration,” the statement read.
Further, Governor Okpebholo reinstated the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), ordering a return to the status quo before the controversial councils were established.
Okpebholo also reiterated his administration’s support for the construction of the Benin Royal Museum, which will house the returned artefacts. Distancing his government from the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWAA) project initiated by the previous administration, he reaffirmed the Oba’s exclusive ownership of the artefacts.
“The Oba of Benin, as the father of all Benin people, is the sole custodian of the customs and traditions of the Benin people. My administration respects the customs and traditions of the land and hereby restores the statutory rights of the Oba of Benin as the true custodian of the returned Benin artefacts,” Okpebholo declared.
He further emphasized, “Governor Okpebholo respects the rights and privileges of the traditional ruler of Benin Kingdom, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare ll, and pledges the support of his administration to ensure the Monarch plays his role as the custodian of the rich cultural heritage of the Benin people.”
In line with these measures, the governor confirmed his alignment with the Federal Government’s decision recognizing the Oba of Benin as the rightful owner of the artefacts, underscoring the monarch’s role as a cultural and traditional symbol for the Benin Kingdom.
These bold steps reflect Governor Okpebholo’s resolve to foster harmony, preserve Benin’s rich cultural heritage, and strengthen the ties between the government and the traditional institution.
