The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, celebrates with traditional dance steps as he receives two stolen artefacts returned from Germany.
The National Commission for Museum and Monuments (NCMM) handed over wooden and bronze stools used by Oba Esigie and Oba Eresonye between the 15th and 17th centuries.
These items were repatriated by German authorities in 2022. During the presentation, NCMM’s Director-General, Olugbile Holloway, pledged to work with the Benin Royal Court to promote Edo heritage.
The artefacts were originally looted during the British invasion of the Benin palace in 1897.
The joyful Oba, along with his excited chiefs and royal family members, danced to traditional Benin music after unveiling the returned artefacts.
They also offered prayers to God and their ancestors while expressing gratitude to the German and Nigerian governments for facilitating the return of these valuable items.
“NCMM will join hands with the Royal Court to create a befitting destination for people around the world to come and appreciate these works. What you see before us was originally taken away from the Royal family in 1897.
“We have a stool made of Bronze and a wooden stool. I speak for every member of my team when I say that we remain loyal to the Royal Court. If there is anything we can do, we will do to support this laudable initiative.
”This heritage is not just Benin’s heritage, but Nigeria’s heritage. When we speak of Benin heritage, there is nobody who doesn’t know the great works of ours. I appreciate you, we will always do what we can do with our powers to make His Royal Majesty lineage in memory,” Holloway stated.
Watch the video below …
The Great Oba of Benin, Oba Eware II danced gracefully in celebration of the return of the great Royal Stool (Artefact) that was stolen during the Benin invasion.
Our Royal Father, Oba Eware II is father of every Edo.
OBA GHATO KPERE ✊ pic.twitter.com/qhuenpK1aq
— Lawrence I. Okoro ( Sir Law ) (@LawrenceOkoroPG) May 19, 2024