……Land to Be Restored for Benin Central Hospital
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has annulled the Certificate of Occupancy previously granted to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) by former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.
The revocation, issued in a directive dated October 21, was justified by the governor as being in the “overriding public interest.” The action invokes the powers conferred on him under Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978, now known as the Land Use Act.
Governor Okpebholo noted that the land formerly allocated to the Edo Museum of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE would be reclaimed by the state and restored to its original function as the Benin Central Hospital.
In response, MOWAA clarified misunderstandings about its mission and activities in Benin City. Through its Director, Mr. Phillip Ihenacho, the museum emphasized its respect and reverence for Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting West Africa’s cultural heritage.
The museum also dismissed claims that it misrepresented itself as the “Benin Royal Museum” to secure funding, urging donors to verify directly that no such misrepresentation occurred. Director of the MOWAA Institute, Ore Disu, reiterated that the institution remains devoted to maintaining a respectful relationship with the Benin monarchy while continuing its cultural initiatives.
