Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has revoked the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) for the land previously allocated to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), announcing the site will be restored to its original purpose as a public hospital.
The revocation order, dated October 21, 2025, follows mounting public discontent and long-standing objections from Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, over the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for the museum project.
The decision was made public barely 24 hours after a preview exhibition at the MOWAA site on Sunday was dramatically disrupted by protesters professing loyalty to the Benin Palace.
The gathering, which included foreign dignitaries such as the ambassadors of the European Union and Germany, was abruptly halted as guests were escorted out under heavy security.
In his revocation order, Governor Okpebholo stated that the approximately 6.210-hectare land, which was the site of the demolished Central Hospital, has been reclaimed by the state. He cited “overriding public interest” and concerns regarding the project’s transparency as reasons for the action.
In a statement signed by his aide, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration was not informed of the presence of the foreign delegation visiting for MOWAA activities, calling it an example of the “lack of transparency” that has plagued the project since its inception.
“The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government,” the statement read, questioning the project’s evolution from the “Benin Royal Museum” to MOWAA without adequate consultation with the revered traditional institution.
The Governor confirmed that a committee has been established to investigate the project and make appropriate recommendations.
In response, the Museum of West African Art administration has denied allegations that it has claimed ownership of any Benin Bronzes or attempted to undermine the Oba of Benin’s authority.
In a Monday statement, MOWAA affirmed its deep respect for the Benin Throne and denied ever presenting itself as the “Benin Royal Museum” to secure funding, urging authorities to verify the claim with international donors.
Phillip Ihenacho, MOWAA’s director, expressed sadness over the protest but voiced hope that the incident could lead to “renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding” to realize MOWAA’s potential for Nigeria and Africa.
