Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting the sanctity of Benin culture, traditions, and the revered monarchy, declaring that no act—public or private—will be allowed to undermine the authority of the Benin Kingdom.
Governor Okpebholo made the statement on Wednesday while addressing hundreds of peaceful protesters at the Government House, Benin City. The demonstrators, comprising palace chiefs, youth groups, civil society organizations, and concerned Edo citizens, had marched to register their opposition to the planned opening of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
Responding to their concerns, the Governor said the preservation of Edo’s cultural heritage is a top priority for his administration. “Our culture is our identity, and I assure you that this administration will never allow its desecration,” he stated. “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, remains the true custodian of our heritage.”
Governor Okpebholo commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct, describing their action as a reflection of the dignity and discipline for which the Benin Kingdom is globally admired. He disclosed that the Minister of Culture and Tourism had reached out to him for further consultations and announced plans to meet with His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, to resolve the matter. “Please be assured that nothing belonging to the people of Edo will be taken from them,” he added. “Give me time to handle this matter in a way that honours our history and our Monarch.”
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Comrade Osazee Amas-Edobor criticized the planned November 11, 2025 commissioning of MOWAA, describing it as “premature, disrespectful, and potentially illegal.” He maintained that the project is still under deliberation in the Edo State House of Assembly, and any attempt to inaugurate it without legislative and royal consent would be an affront to the State and the Benin Throne.
Amas-Edobor alleged that the museum project, originally conceived as the Royal Museum, was altered under a “Legacy Trust” arrangement introduced by the previous administration, claiming that funds meant for the Royal Museum were diverted and the Central Hospital demolished to make way for the new project. “Benin people do not insult elders,” he said. “Our protest is to preserve our heritage and ensure that what belongs to the Oba is not misappropriated.”
The protesters, while expressing faith in Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, commended him for his developmental strides within his first year in office and for restoring public confidence through people-oriented governance.
In his closing remarks, the Governor assured the crowd that his administration would handle the issue with fairness and firmness. “Our heritage is sacred,” he said. “And as long as I remain Governor, it will be protected with honour, wisdom, and resolute leadership.”
