According to historical records, the artifacts—bronze and wooden royal stools (Ekete) made during the reigns of Oba Eresoyen and Oba Esigie several centuries ago—were looted from the Oba’s Palace during the punitive expedition of 1897.
In 2022, these artifacts were handed over to the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) on behalf of the Nigerian government by the German authorities.
On Saturday, May 18, 2024, the Director-General of NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway, presented the artifacts to the Oba of Benin’s Palace in Benin City.
During the presentation ceremony, Mr. Holloway addressed the Benin throne, pledging on behalf of the NCMM to work closely with the Benin Royal Court to promote and display Edo culture and heritage.
He expressed his commitment to creating a destination for people worldwide to appreciate the Benin Bronzes and other artworks as they are gradually repatriated to Nigeria.
“What you see before us were originally taken away from the Royal family in 1897. We have a stool made of bronze and a wooden stool,” Mr. Holloway said.
He assured the Royal Court of the NCMM’s loyalty and support for preserving this significant cultural heritage.
Mr. Holloway emphasized that this heritage is not just a part of Benin’s history but a crucial aspect of Nigeria’s cultural identity.
He acknowledged the global recognition of Benin’s great works and expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation and celebration of this rich heritage.
“We remain loyal to the Royal Court and will support this laudable initiative in any way we can,” he added.
After unveiling the repatriated artefacts, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, expressed his joy through a traditional Benin dance, joined by excited chiefs and members of the Royal family.
The Oba offered prayers to Almighty God and his ancestors, showing deep gratitude to the German government, the Nigerian federal government, and the NCMM leadership for their efforts in returning these precious artefacts.
In a historic move, the Oba sat on one of the royal stools (Ekete) and personally presented a chunk of white chalk, symbolizing peace and blessings, to Mr. Holloway.
The Oba also prayed for Mr. Holloway and his team, who were accompanied by the Curator of the National Museum in Benin, Mark Olaitan, and the Director of Legal Services at NCMM, Babatunde Adebiyi.
The visit concluded with a performance by the royal drummers, showcasing their skills and paying tribute to the stewardship of the NCMM team.
This ceremony marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to restore Benin’s cultural heritage and underscores the collaborative efforts between the Nigerian government, international partners, and the Benin Royal Court in preserving and celebrating the rich history and traditions of the Edo people.
