Protesters disrupt MOWAA opening in Edo
The planned opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) descended into chaos on Sunday after protesters stormed the grounds, forcing the evacuation of international guests and prompting the cancellation of all preview events.
The multi-million-dollar cultural complex in Edo State was designed in part as a future home for the famed Benin Bronzes — historic artefacts looted by British forces in the 19th century and now expected to be returned. But a growing dispute over who should control the repatriated treasures appeared to fuel the unrest.
What was intended as a closed-door preview for investors, artists and foreign dignitaries quickly unraveled. A group of protesters breached security, chanting war songs and demanding that the institution be renamed the “Benin Royal Museum.” Videos showed protesters chasing away journalists, diplomats and tourists.
Read Also: FG approves over N1trn for road projects nationwide
In a statement, MOWAA said all guests were escorted to secure locations and confirmed the cancellation of preview events scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, as well as the museum’s grand opening.
The institution said it had been drawn into political tensions between Edo State’s previous and current administrations.
“MOWAA is an independent, non-profit institution, of which the former governor has no interest — financial or otherwise,” the statement said. “The safety and well-being of our staff, visitors, and partners remains our highest priority.”
The museum added that it is working with local authorities and apologized to guests whose travel plans and visits were disrupted.
Nigeria’s federal ministry of art, culture, tourism and the creative economy said it was monitoring the “volatile situation,” calling the unrest a “national issue” that threatens a key cultural institution.
The ministry said the disruption endangers a “treasured cultural asset” and the atmosphere needed for cultural exchange. Minister Hannatu Musawa said she has briefed the presidency and is in consultation with Edo State officials, security agencies and other stakeholders.
The ministry said it would take whatever measures are necessary to safeguard the museum and uphold the rule of law, signaling potential federal intervention if the situation escalates.
