- Tinubu Sets Up Committee to Resolve MOWAA, Oba of Benin Dispute
- The new committee will address all concerns through dialogue
- MOWAA said it is working closely with local and national decision makers to ensure it continues to serve as a safe and inclusive cultural space
President Bola Tinubu has appointed a high level Presidential Committee to develop a comprehensive framework for the permanent resolution of all issues between the Museum of West African Arts and the Palace of the Oba of Benin.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the appointment follows the disruption of an event opening at the museum last Sunday in Benin City, which led to the temporary postponement of the programme.
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According to the Presidency, the new committee will address all concerns through dialogue, mutual respect and full adherence to constitutional provisions.
The Committee will be chaired by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa.
Members include representatives from the Presidency, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, the National Council for Arts and Culture, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, the Palace of the Oba of Benin, the Edo State Government and international partners including representatives of the German and French embassies.
The statement added that the museum has postponed the public opening of its flagship exhibition titled Nigeria Imaginary Homecoming in light of the recent protests. MOWAA said it is working closely with local and national decision makers to ensure it continues to serve as a safe and inclusive cultural space.
It also noted that the MOWAA Institute’s ongoing programmes in research, art conservation, education and professional training remain active while the doors of the main museum stay temporarily closed.
The statement reaffirmed that MOWAA is committed to balancing Nigeria’s cultural interests with its international partnerships for the benefit of its core audiences.
The Director of MOWAA Mr Phillip Ihenacho assured that the museum remains committed to respectful engagement aimed at preserving and advancing the cultural legacy of Benin City.
He said the museum will continue to work with stakeholders, traditional leaders and cultural institutions to support economic development and strengthen the city’s goal of becoming a major cultural capital in the region.
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