In a significant move, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has restored the full statutory rights of the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II. This decision comes after the previous administration created new traditional councils in Edo South, which have now been abolished.
The governor has also withdrawn the letter revoking the concession of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre, which was initially intended to be used as a motor park.
According to a statement released by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the state government is restoring the Oba Akenzua centre to its original purpose. The government is also abolishing the new traditional councils in Edo South created by the last administration. Additionally, Okpebholo has restored the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council and has ordered that the status quo before the creation of the now-abolished councils be maintained.
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The Okpebholo administration is backing the initial plan of the state government to build the Benin Royal Museum, which will house the returned artefacts. The government is also distancing itself from the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWA), which the previous administration fronted as the museum to hold the returned Benin artefacts. The Federal Government has issued a Gazette recognizing the ownership and custody of the repatriated Benin artefacts to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.
In the statement, Okpebholo pledged to respect the rights and privileges of the traditional ruler of the Benin Kingdom and to support the decision of the Federal Government to uphold the Oba of Benin as the exclusive owner of the returned Benin artifacts. The governor also recognized the Oba of Benin as the sole custodian of the customs and traditions of the Benin people and pledged to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the Benin Traditional Council.
“This administration is committed to restoring the dignity and respect of the Benin Monarch and the traditional institution,” Okpebholo said. “We will continue to support the Oba of Benin in his role as the custodian of the rich cultural heritage of the Benin people.”
The move has been welcomed by the Benin Traditional Council and the people of Edo State, who have praised the governor for his commitment to promoting the state’s cultural heritage.
“This is a significant step towards promoting our cultural heritage and preserving our traditional institution,” said Mr. Osaro Osayande, a resident of Benin City. “We are grateful to Governor Okpebholo for his commitment to our state.”