The historic city of Benin, Nigeria, witnessed a momentous occasion on Wednesday with the return of 119 stolen artifacts from the Netherlands. These artifacts, plundered during the British punitive expedition of 1897, represent a significant portion of the Benin Kingdom’s cultural heritage. Oba Ewuare II, the reigning monarch of Benin, presided over the repatriation ceremony, expressing profound gratitude for the return of these treasured objects. The Oba recounted the historical injustices suffered by the Benin people, including the burning of their kingdom, the massacre of its inhabitants, and the systematic attempt to crush their spirit. He emphasized that the return of these artifacts served as a powerful symbol of resilience and a reawakening of the Benin people’s inherent courage. The Oba’s words resonated with a deep sense of historical consciousness, reminding those present of the enduring impact of colonialism and the importance of reclaiming lost heritage.
Oba Ewuare II specifically acknowledged the unwavering commitment of both current President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari in ensuring the successful repatriation of these artifacts. He revealed the existence of an international cartel, operating within Nigeria, that had plotted to re-loot the artifacts. This revelation highlighted the ongoing struggle to protect cultural heritage from exploitation and theft. The Oba credited divine intervention and the blessings of his ancestors for thwarting these nefarious plans. His gratitude extended to the Dutch government for their cooperation in facilitating the return of the artifacts, emphasizing the significance of international collaboration in addressing historical injustices.
The Oba’s address delved into the post-1897 era, a period marked by attempts to further diminish the Benin Kingdom. He expressed his deep-seated anger at these efforts, highlighting the resilience and courage of the Benin youths, who stood firm against these threats. He vowed to protect the kingdom’s integrity during his reign, emphasizing the sacred duty he holds as the custodian of his ancestors’ legacy. This commitment reflected his unwavering resolve to uphold the dignity and cultural heritage of the Benin people. The Oba’s powerful words served as a rallying cry, inspiring hope and resilience within the community.
The repatriation ceremony also featured contributions from other key figures involved in the process. Professor Abba Isa Tijani, Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), affirmed the ongoing efforts to secure the return of more artifacts. This commitment signifies the ongoing work towards restoring the complete cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom. The acknowledgment of past attempts by a previous NCMM DG to obstruct the repatriation process further underscored the complexities and challenges faced in reclaiming stolen artifacts. It highlighted the importance of integrity and dedication in those entrusted with preserving cultural heritage.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, represented by the Secretary to State Government, Barr. Osarodion Ogie, reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure for the preservation of the returned artifacts. This commitment emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable systems for the long-term care and protection of these invaluable objects. The governor’s pledge reflected a shared responsibility to safeguard the returned artifacts for future generations. The promise of collaboration with the federal government signaled a united effort to enhance the storage and preservation of these cultural treasures.
Marieke Van Bommel, General Director of the Wereld Museum in Rotterdam, from which the artifacts were returned, acknowledged the looting of the artifacts and emphasized the Netherlands’ policy of repatriating stolen cultural property. While acknowledging the 119 artifacts as the entirety of the Wereld Museum’s Benin collection, she also highlighted the presence of more Benin artifacts in other European collections. This statement emphasizes the wider scope of the repatriation issue and the need for continued international collaboration. It underscored the importance of each institution taking responsibility for its own collection and working towards the restitution of stolen artifacts.
The return of these 119 artifacts marks a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to reclaim the Benin Kingdom’s cultural heritage. The event transcended a mere handover ceremony, transforming into a powerful affirmation of cultural identity, resilience, and the enduring legacy of the Benin people. The Oba’s impassioned words, coupled with the commitments made by various stakeholders, underscored the collective responsibility to protect and preserve cultural heritage for generations to come. This repatriation serves as a powerful example of international collaboration and a beacon of hope for other communities seeking the return of their stolen cultural treasures.
