The Management of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) has dismissed allegations suggesting that it falsely presented itself as the Benin Royal Museum to attract funding.
In a statement issued in Benin City, the Director of MOWAA Institute, Ore Disu, urged relevant authorities and donors to verify directly with the institution’s funding partners, emphasizing that MOWAA had never misrepresented its identity or purpose.
Disu reaffirmed the museum’s deep respect for His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, adding that MOWAA would continue to promote goodwill and understanding while maintaining a respectful engagement with all stakeholders.
He reiterated the organisation’s commitment to preserving and promoting West Africa’s rich cultural heritage, stating that since its establishment in 2020, MOWAA had consistently made clear that it holds no claim to any Benin Bronzes.
According to the statement, “MOWAA does not hold, nor have we ever claimed title to any Benin Bronzes. Since our inception in 2020, the Museum has consistently affirmed that it has no claims to these artefacts.
“Our focus for the last four years has been firmly on broader West African art, research, education, and conservation, with a strong focus on modern and contemporary, as well as historical works from Nigeria and beyond. There are no Benin Bronzes on display at the Museum, nor have there ever been.”
Disu further explained that MOWAA’s mission has always been to support and collaborate with other cultural institutions rather than compete with them. “We are committed to supporting other museums and cultural institutions in Benin City and
across West Africa as part of our mission to contribute to the city’s economic development and strengthen its image as a cultural capital for the region,” he stated.“MOWAA’s goal has always been to complement, not compete with, other cultural institutions. We do this by fostering collaboration with artists, researchers, universities and museums across the region. We look forward to working as part of this wider ecosystem, supporting and strengthening Nigeria’s growing network of cultural institutions.”
Clarifying recent reports, Disu noted that there was no official commissioning or formal opening of the museum, explaining that the event held on Sunday was a private preview organised for partners and stakeholders. He also pointed out that none of the works displayed at the event were of Benin heritage.
“We set out to demonstrate that it’s possible to build world-class conservation facilities, research, and exhibition spaces right here in Nigeria. We’ve shown that African stories can be told on our own terms, and I’m incredibly proud and grateful for what we’ve accomplished so far. This is a gift for black and African people everywhere; for people today and future generations,” he said.
MOWAA’s Director, Philip Iheanacho, expressed regret over the controversy surrounding Sunday’s event but called for renewed understanding and dialogue.
“We are saddened by the events of Sunday. But we hope this moment can lead to renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large,” Iheanacho stated.
