Benin Monarch Celebrates Return of Stolen Artifacts from Germany

In a momentous ceremony filled with cultural reverence and ancestral homage, Oba Ewuare II of Benin joyfully received two repatriated artifacts from Germany, facilitated by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).

The artifacts, a set of wooden and bronze stools dating back to the 15th to 17th centuries and attributed to Oba Esigie and Oba Eresonye, were stolen during the British invasion of the Benin Palace in 1897.

The German authorities handed over the artifacts to the NCMM in 2022, symbolizing a significant gesture of restitution for the Nigerian government. Mr. Olugbile Holloway, Director-General of the NCMM, officially presented the items to Oba Ewuare II at a ceremony attended by ecstatic chiefs and members of the royal family.

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Holloway expressed the NCMM’s commitment to collaborating with the Benin Royal Court to preserve and promote Edo heritage. “NCMM will work with the Royal Court to create a suitable destination for people to come and appreciate these works,” Holloway stated. He emphasized the significance of the artifacts, noting their return as a rectification of the historical injustices faced by the Benin Royal family. “We have a wooden stool and a stool made of bronze. We stay faithful to the Royal Court, and I speak for all of my team members when I say that. We will support this commendable initiative in any way that we can.”

Highlighting the broader cultural implications, Holloway remarked that the heritage of these artifacts extends beyond Benin, encapsulating Nigerian heritage as a whole. “Nobody can deny their Benin heritage when it comes to this topic. Nigerian heritage is included in this heritage, not just Benin heritage.”

In a poignant display of cultural pride, Oba Ewuare II unveiled the repatriated artifacts and performed a traditional Benin dance, accompanied by songs from his ancestors. The ceremony was a powerful tribute to the resilience and enduring legacy of the Benin Kingdom.

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The monarch expressed profound gratitude to both the federal government of Nigeria and the German government for their efforts in facilitating the return of the stolen treasures. He recalled the forthcoming return of an additional 39 artifacts from the Swedish Museum, a decision conveyed by Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria Annika Hahn-Englund during a courtesy visit to the Oba of Benin Palace.

Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, reiterated the monarch’s appreciation and commitment to preserving the lineage and cultural heritage of Benin. The return of these artifacts marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to reclaim and celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.