By Abiola Olawale
Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, was in an elated mood on Saturday after receiving two artefacts from Germany through the National Commission for Museum and Monument (NCMM).
The monarch was seen dancing and singing as he received the artefacts used by his forebears.
The national treasures include wooden and bronze stools said to have been used by Oba Esigie and Oba Eresonye between the 15th and 17th centuries.
The artefacts were said to have been looted around 1897 when the British reportedly invaded the Benin Palace.
Handing over the Royal Stool, Director-General of the NCMM, Mr Olugbile Holloway, on behalf of the Federal Government, said the two items were recovered through a collaborative effort between all stakeholders
Addressing the monarch, Holloway also pledged to deepen collaboration with the Benin Royal Court in uplifting and displaying the Edo heritage.
He said: “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 BeBenin’seritage, but Nigeria’s heritage. When we speak of Benin heritage, there is nobody won’t know great works appreciate you and e weiwe what can do with our powers to make His Royal Majesty lineage in memory.”
After unveiling the repatriated artefacts, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, with excited Chiefs and members of the royal family, danced to Benin traditional rendition in dramatic dance steps, offering prayers to God and his ancestors.
The monarch appreciated the German government and the federal government for their efforts.
