Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has revoked the certificate of occupancy (C-of-O) previously granted to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), restoring the disputed Benin Central Hospital site to public health use.
The decision follows public outrage and objections from Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, over the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for the museum.
Tensions peaked on Sunday when protesters loyal to the Benin Palace disrupted a preview exhibition at the museum attended by foreign diplomats, including the ambassadors of the European Union and Germany. The event was abruptly shut down as guests were escorted out under tight security.
In a revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Governor Okpebholo said the state had reclaimed the land from MOWAA. He cited overriding public interest and transparency concerns surrounding the project.
He stated that the land, “known as Digital Plot No. 61977, Zone HI/A12/Ogboka, Benin City, in Oredo Local Government Area, measures approximately 6.210 hectares and was the site of the demolished Central Hospital”, adding that it would be restored to its original public health purpose.
In a statement signed by his aide, Fred Itua, Okpebholo explained that his administration had not been informed about the presence of the foreign delegation visiting Edo for activities linked to MOWAA.
He described the situation as another instance of “lack of transparency” surrounding the museum’s establishment. “Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place; that’s the truth. The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government,” the statement reads.
“It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution,” he added.
Okpebholo also announced the formation of a committee to investigate the project and make appropriate recommendations.
In response, the museum’s administration denied allegations that it claimed ownership of Benin bronzes or sought to undermine the Oba’s authority.
“MOWAA holds His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II (CFR), the Oba of Benin, in the highest esteem and continues to uphold deep respect for the Benin Throne,” the museum’s statement reads.
Phillip Ihenacho, director of MOWAA, said he was saddened by the protest but expressed optimism for renewed engagement. “I hope this moment can lead to renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large,” he said.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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