Nigeria’s Museum of West African Art (Mowaa) in Benin City is currently facing a political dispute that has delayed its anticipated opening. Established on a six-hectare campus, Mowaa was designed by British-Ghanaian architect Sir David Adjaye and aims to celebrate the region’s artistic heritage, particularly its connection to the Benin Bronzes, artworks looted in the 19th century.
Funded with $25 million from various international donors, Mowaa intends to create over 30,000 jobs and contribute substantially to the local economy. However, issues arose when the Edo state government revoked the land’s use, citing a change in the museum’s name from “Edo Museum of West African Art” to merely “Museum of West African Art” as a violation of the original agreement. Protests ensued, with demonstrators demanding the museum be referred to as the Benin Royal Museum and calling for it to fall under the control of the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
This conflict appears to be influenced by local political dynamics, particularly as the previous governor, who supported Mowaa’s development, has been succeeded by a governor aligned with traditional authority. The controversy is compounded by the sensitive issue of custodianship regarding the Benin Bronzes. While discussions about their restitution are ongoing, Mowaa has distanced itself from claims of ownership over the bronzes, emphasizing a mission to focus on contemporary African creativity across various art forms.
Cultural specialists note that the public is more concerned with the museum’s local benefits rather than the restitution debates. Mowaa’s inaugural exhibition, titled “Homecoming,” hopes to highlight these themes and establish connections with the local community, irrespective of political disputes. As efforts continue to resolve these tensions, the future of Mowaa hangs in the balance.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1d0ydl7dypo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss