In a major cultural and diplomatic milestone, the Netherlands has returned 119 priceless Benin artefacts looted during the British invasion of 1897 to the Benin Kingdom, thwarting what His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, described as a fresh attempt by an international cartel to re-loot the treasures.
At a solemn but historic ceremony inside the ancient Oba’s Palace, the revered Monarch disclosed that some unscrupulous interests, in collaboration with foreign actors, had plotted to divert the repatriated bronzes, but were defeated by the resilience of the Kingdom and the resolve of Nigeria’s government.
“They tried to steal our heritage again, but our ancestors protected these artefacts and frustrated their plans,” Oba Ewuare II declared.
The artefacts were returned by a high-powered delegation from the Netherlands led by Ms. Marieke van Bommel, Director-General of Wereld Museum, alongside Nigeria’s Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Mr. Olugbile Holloway.
Oba Ewuare II expressed deep gratitude to God Almighty, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, commending their unwavering support in ensuring the bronzes returned safely to their rightful home.
“This is a victory for the Benin people, who despite the tragedy of 1897, have remained bold, courageous, and proud custodians of our ancient culture,” the Monarch stated, while warning against modern political interference aimed at eroding the dignity of the Kingdom.
Oba Ewuare II specifically applauded NCMM DG, Holloway, for his integrity throughout the repatriation process and took a swipe at Holloway’s predecessor for allegedly conspiring in the failed re-looting attempt.
“I told my Chiefs here at the palace that I would rather leave these artefacts abroad than allow them be re-looted while I sit on this throne,” he added.
Representing Governor Okpebholo, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Palace and NCMM in preserving and securing the artefacts for posterity.
“This homecoming is 128 years in the making. It affirms the indomitable spirit of the Edo people and the dignity of our ancient Kingdom,” Ikhilor said.
He further assured that the government would partner the Federal Government and the Royal Court to construct a world-class museum in Benin City to house and display the artefacts for global tourism and scholarship.
Ms. van Bommel, in her remarks, reiterated the Netherlands’ restitution policy on looted colonial-era artefacts, describing the return as a moral responsibility.
“These items were looted during a violent campaign, and it is only proper they return to their ancestral home in Benin City,” she said.
NCMM boss, Holloway, described the repatriation as the product of years of sustained negotiations and international goodwill. He revealed that all costs associated with the return were borne by the Dutch authorities.
An official signing ceremony between Nigeria and the Netherlands is scheduled for June 21, 2025, at the National Museum in Lagos, with delegations from both countries and the Benin Royal Court expected to attend.
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