FG Issues Gazette Recognising Ownership, Vesting Custody of Repatriated Looted Artefacts in Oba of Benin

The Oba of Benin has been officially recognized as the rightful owner and custodian of the repatriated Benin Artefacts in a gazette issued by the Federal Government. The dispute between the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, and Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, over the ownership, custody and management of the artefacts has been resolved with this official declaration.

The Government Notice No. 25 in Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 57, Volume 110 dated March 28, 2023 has ordered that the ownership of looted artefacts be vested in the Oba and the custody of the repatriated artefacts be handed over to the Oba as the original owner and custodian of the culture, heritage and tradition of the people of Benin Kingdom in Edo State of Nigeria. The gazette has also detailed that the repatriated artefacts may be kept within the Palace of the Oba or other secure locations within Benin City.

The Oba has been given responsibility for the management of all places where the repatriated artefacts are located, and shall work jointly with any recognized national or international institution to ensure their preservation and security for the benefits of humanity. The gazette has further outlined that the artefacts cannot be taken out of the designated custody without the written consent and authorization of the Oba, and upon return, the artefacts shall first be inspected and authenticated by the Oba before being accepted and restored to their designated custody.