- Vows to Protect Edo Public Assets, Orders Boundary Demarcation
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has cautioned the management of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) against further encroachment on land belonging to the Edo State Specialist Hospital, warning that his administration will not allow any erosion of public property.
According to his Chief Press Secretary Owaen Fred Itua, the governor issued the warning during an inspection tour of the MOWAA project at King’s Square, Benin City, where he was conducted around the site by MOWAA’s Executive Director, Mr. Philip Iheanacho.
Governor Okpebholo said the visit was aimed at obtaining firsthand information about the project’s physical boundaries and ensuring clear demarcation between both properties.
Expressing displeasure over the extent of encroachment, the governor described the development as “unacceptable” and “detrimental” to the hospital’s long-term operations. “The hospital has existed for over 90 years, but MOWAA is a recent development. What we are witnessing is like a tenant attempting to drive a landlord out of his own property,” Okpebholo said.
He emphasized that the Specialist Hospital remains a critical public institution serving Edo people and must be protected from any form of land infringement.
The governor directed that a clear boundary demarcation be immediately established between the museum and the hospital to prevent future disputes. “Edo people are not happy with this development. My responsibility as governor is to safeguard what belongs to the people. We have shown MOWAA the limits of their allocation, and they must adhere to it. The hospital’s facilities, including doctors’ quarters, emergency wards, and mortuary, were displaced without replacement — and that is unacceptable,” he added.
While reaffirming his administration’s support for cultural preservation and creative investment, Okpebholo stressed that such projects must not undermine public welfare or essential services.
The MOWAA project, initiated under the previous administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, has faced renewed scrutiny under the current government following land-use concerns between the museum and the hospital.
Responding, Mr. Philip Iheanacho, Executive Director of MOWAA, acknowledged the governor’s concerns and expressed readiness to cooperate with the state to resolve the issue amicably. “Our project is being executed based on the Certificate of Occupancy issued by the previous administration. However, we are in discussions with the state government to reassess the boundaries to ensure there is no encroachment on either side,” Iheanacho stated.
He reiterated MOWAA’s commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with the state government and ensuring the project aligns with both legal and community interests.
Governor Okpebholo concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to balanced development. “We will continue to promote investment and cultural advancement, but Edo people’s property and public institutions must be protected. Governance must balance progress with fairness,” he said.
