Protesters Disrupt Opening of Major Museum in Benin City

 Tension flared in Benin City as protesters disrupted the soft-opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), a landmark project aimed at celebrating African cultural heritage. The demonstrators voiced anger over ongoing disputes surrounding the Benin Bronzes, historical artifacts looted during the colonial era and currently housed in foreign museums.

Chanting slogans and holding placards, the protesters demanded that ownership and control of the artifacts remain with the Benin Royal Palace and local custodians, not external organizations or government-appointed bodies.

The MOWAA, envisioned as a world-class center for West African art and culture, had drawn anticipation and pride — but the protests highlight unresolved tensions over who truly owns and represents Nigeria’s cultural identity.

As discussions continue, the event underscores the delicate balance between preserving history and respecting traditional heritage rights in modern Nigeria.

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