Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has held discussions with the Chief Executive Officer and Secretary-General of Rotary International, John Hewko, at his palace in Benin City over efforts to repatriate more than 3,000 looted Benin artefacts currently held in foreign museums and private collections.
The cultural objects were taken following the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Royal Court, an event that led to the widespread removal of royal artworks and historical items now scattered across Europe and North America.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the monarch urged Rotary International to use its global network to support advocacy for the return of the artefacts to the Benin Kingdom.
“Many of our artefacts are in the hands of private collectors in America. I know that because I have seen them,” the Oba said.
“Members of Rotary club are all over the place.
”I will like you to join forces to go, engage your European counterparts, inform them that you are collaborating with the Benin Royal Court towards the return of about 3,000 artefacts that are out there,” he said.
The monarch stressed the importance of coordinated international engagement to accelerate restitution efforts and strengthen cultural justice campaigns..
In his response, Hewko praised the Oba’s continued commitment to peacebuilding and dialogue within Edo State and beyond, while commending his efforts in promoting unity.
“Your Royal Majesty, it is with great pleasure to be here in your Kingdom. I bring you greeting from Rotary International and on behalf of the 1.2 million Rotarians around the world,” he said.
He added that peace and humanitarian service remained central to the organisation’s mission.
“The concept of peace is of extraordinary importance for us.
”And the good work and the service that we do in your Kingdom.
”We commend you for continuing to promote peace bringing Communities and the people together, especially in a world that is so divided, many challenges to confront,” Hewko said.
