In a firm affirmation of cultural preservation, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has publicly declared his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting the heritage of the Benin Kingdom, specifically assuring that the authority and custodianship of His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, will remain inviolate.
The Governor made this declaration on Wednesday while addressing hundreds of peaceful protesters, including palace chiefs, civil society groups, and youth bodies, who marched to the Government House in Benin City. The demonstrators were expressing deep-seated concerns over the planned opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), scheduled for November 11, 2025.
Governor Okpebholo, meeting the protesters with solidarity, assured them that their concerns were legitimate and aligned with his government’s position. “Our culture is our identity, and I assure you that this administration will never allow its desecration,” he stated emphatically. “We know where these artifacts were taken from. Now that they have been returned, they must be restored to their rightful place. His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, is the true custodian of our heritage, and nothing will be done to undermine that truth.”
The Governor’s statement directly confronts the core issue raised by the coalition of Benin socio-cultural organizations. Their spokesperson, Comrade Osazee Amas-Edobor, had earlier argued that the move to inaugurate MOWAA was premature, disrespectful, and potentially illegal, as the project remains under deliberation at the Edo State House of Assembly. He alleged that the project, originally conceived as the Royal Museum for the Benin Palace, was altered through a questionable “Legacy Trust” initiative under the previous administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Amas-Edobor further claimed that funds for the Royal Museum were diverted and that the Central Hospital, a vital public health facility, was demolished to make way for the controversial project. “Benin people do not insult elders,” he stated. “Our protest is to preserve our heritage and to ensure that what belongs to the Oba is not misappropriated in any form.”
Commending the protesters for their civility, Governor Okpebholo announced that the Minister of Culture and Tourism had reached out and would be visiting Edo State for further engagement. He urged the demonstrators to return to their communities peacefully, promising decisive and respectful action.
“I will meet with His Royal Majesty to discuss this issue thoroughly,” the Governor said. “Please, be assured that nothing belonging to the people of Edo will be taken away from them. Give me time to resolve this matter in a way that honours our history and our Monarch.”
He concluded with a firm promise: “Our heritage is sacred. And as long as I remain Governor, it will be protected with honour, wisdom, and resolute leadership.”
The event concluded peacefully, marking a significant moment where the state government explicitly aligned itself with the traditional institution and the will of the people in a major cultural dispute.
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