Benin City, June 18, 2025 – In a powerful cultural and diplomatic victory, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has announced the successful repatriation of 119 Benin artefacts from the Netherlands—while revealing that an international cartel had attempted to re-loot the priceless treasures.
The Oba made the revelation during a symbolic handover ceremony at his palace in Benin City, where the artefacts—originally looted during the 1897 British invasion of Benin—were officially received.
Dignitaries in attendance included Mr. Olugbile Holloway, Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM); Ms. Marieke van Bommel, Director-General of the Netherlands-based Wereld Museum; and top government officials from both Nigeria and the Netherlands.
International Plot to Re-loot Foiled
Oba Ewuare II disclosed that coordinated efforts by groups within Nigeria, allegedly backed by international interests, attempted to divert the artefacts for selfish gain.
“There were groups in this country, backed by an international cartel, who conspired to re-loot our artefacts… but they failed. Our ancestors protected them,” he declared.
The Monarch expressed gratitude to God Almighty, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Governor Monday Okpebholo for standing firm to ensure the treasures were returned legitimately.
Diplomatic Process and Cultural Triumph
The return was the result of years of sustained advocacy by the Benin Royal Court and formal diplomatic channels activated by the Nigerian Government. Dutch authorities, through their Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, signed transfer agreements facilitated by Minister Eppo Bruins and Nigeria’s NCMM.
The artefacts were officially received in Benin on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, ahead of a formal signing ceremony scheduled for June 21 at the National Museum in Lagos.
Rebuke of Past Leadership and Political Interference
In a stern rebuke of previous handling, the Oba criticized a former NCMM leadership for complicity in the failed re-looting attempt.
“We fought a running battle to stop those bent on re-looting. I would rather the artefacts remained abroad than be re-looted under my reign,” the Oba stated.
He also warned modern political actors against using culture for partisan gains, urging unity in protecting Benin’s rich heritage.
Government Pledges Continued Support
Representing Governor Okpebholo, Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Musa Ikhilor, pledged the Edo State Government’s commitment to supporting the palace and safeguarding the artefacts.
“This is a moment of pride—a triumph 128 years in the making. We are committed to building a befitting museum that will preserve and showcase these treasures to the world,” Ikhilor said.
Netherlands Acknowledges Historical Injustice
Speaking on behalf of the Dutch government, Ms. Marieke van Bommel affirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to cultural restitution:
“These items were undoubtedly looted, and we have returned them in accordance with our policy. It is only right that they return to Benin City, their place of origin.”
NCMM DG Mr. Holloway described the occasion as a “joyful moment for the people of Benin and Nigeria,” adding that the Dutch side bore all return costs and cooperated fully in the process.
