Oba of Benin Receives Returned Artefacts from US

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, received two artefacts—a mother hen and a bronze plaque—from the University of Iowa Museum in the United States on Monday.

These artefacts were part of those looted from the Benin palace during the British invasion of 1897.

During the reception of these items at his palace, the Oba expressed gratitude for the return, acknowledging President Muhammadu Buhari’s recent gazette that clarified ownership of such artefacts before leaving office.

The monarch highlighted that while his predecessors initiated efforts for their return, he succeeded in achieving this milestone upon his ascension to the throne. He emphasized that these artefacts hold deep spiritual significance beyond mere material value.

He also appealed to political leaders to assist in safeguarding the traditions and customs of Benin.

Cory Gundlach, a curator from the University’s African Art department, apologized on behalf of the institution for using the artefacts as teaching tools. He pledged to continue efforts to repatriate other artefacts currently held elsewhere back to their rightful place in Benin.