By Obinna Uballa
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has revoked the certificate of occupancy (C-of-O) previously granted to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), restoring the site in Benin City to its original use as a public hospital.
The decision follows growing public discontent and strong objections from Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, over the demolition of the Central Hospital to make way for the museum.
The revocation was announced on Monday, less than 24 hours after tensions escalated during a preview exhibition on Sunday, which was disrupted by protesters demonstrating loyalty to the Benin Palace. The event, attended by foreign diplomats including the ambassadors of the European Union and Germany, was abruptly shut down under heightened security.
In a revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Governor Okpebholo stated that the land, Digital Plot No. 61977, Zone HI/A12/Ogboka, Oredo LGA, measuring approximately 6.210 hectares, has been reclaimed by the state in the public interest, citing transparency concerns surrounding the project.
A statement issued Monday by Fred Itua, the governor’s aide, said the administration was not informed about the foreign delegation’s visit linked to MOWAA. “Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place; that’s the truth. The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government,” the statement read.
It also questioned the evolution of the project’s identity—from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA) and now MOWAA—without consultation with the traditional institution. The governor’s administration has reportedly set up a committee to investigate the project and make recommendations.
Meanwhile, MOWAA’s administration denied claims that it sought to undermine the Oba of Benin or misrepresent itself to donors. In a statement, the museum affirmed its respect for the Benin Throne and expressed hope that the current situation could foster renewed dialogue and engagement.
Phillip Ihenacho, director of MOWAA, said he was saddened by the protests but believes the moment could lead to greater understanding of the museum’s potential for Nigeria and Africa at large.
