The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, joyfully danced to the songs of his forebears as he received two artefacts from Germany through the National Commission for Museum and Monument (NCMM).
These national treasures include wooden and bronze stools believed to have been used by Oba Esigie and Oba Eresonye between the 15th and 17th centuries.
The artefacts were originally looted by the British during their invasion of the Benin palace in 1897.
Now, they have been returned and handed over to the NCMM on behalf of the Nigerian government.
The Director-General of the NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway, pledged collaboration with the Benin Royal Court to showcase and uplift Edo heritage.
This restoration is not only significant for Benin but also for Nigeria as a whole. After the unveiling, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, danced in traditional Benin style, expressing gratitude to God and ancestors.
The monarch expressed appreciation to both the German and federal governments for their efforts in repatriating these cultural treasures.
Additionally, the Swedish government has also committed to returning 39 more pieces of Benin artefacts from its museum to the custody of Obaseki Ewuare II.
