The Netherlands has officially returned all Benin artefacts in its possession to Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to the repatriation of looted cultural heritage.
Marieke Van Bommel, Director General of the Wereld Museum, announced the handover of 119 historical artefacts to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, at a ceremony held at the royal palace.
She stated that the returned items represent the entirety of Benin artefacts held in Dutch collections, and urged other European nations still in possession of similar items to follow suit.
“These artefacts were taken unlawfully, and our policy in the Netherlands is to return them. We have brought back 119 artefacts—the complete collection held by Dutch institutions. While there are more scattered across Europe, their return is beyond our jurisdiction,” Van Bommel said.
Oba Ewuare II, while receiving the repatriated treasures, expressed deep gratitude, noting that divine intervention had thwarted attempts by internal and external groups to re-loot the artefacts.
He warned that he would not allow such cultural treasures to be stolen again under his watch.
“There were conspiracies involving international networks within our own country who aimed to re-loot these returned artefacts,” the Oba declared.
“I made a vow that as long as I sit on this ancient throne, no one would succeed in taking what belongs to our ancestors. If the choice is between re-looting and leaving them abroad, they should rather stay there.”
The monarch reflected on the historical trauma of the 1897 British invasion, which resulted in the mass looting of cultural artefacts and a significant blow to the morale and bravery of Benin youth.
“The invasion destroyed our kingdom and demoralised our people. Our courage was suppressed. But today, with the return of these objects, the spirit and boldness of the Benin people are being restored,” he said.
Oba Ewuare II also commended President Bola Tinubu for continuing the repatriation efforts initiated under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He acknowledged the crucial role played by the Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, in safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural heritage, while criticising a former NCMM chief for allegedly being part of a conspiracy to misappropriate the artefacts.
“This throne is above politics, but I will always stand by what benefits my people,” the monarch stated.
“The artefacts are not for anyone else—they belong to our ancestors.”
As a symbolic act of spiritual reinforcement, the Oba used his royal sceptre to offer prayers for the return of more Benin artefacts still held abroad.
NCMM Director General Holloway, in his remarks, assured that the commission is working hand-in-hand with the Benin Royal Palace to ensure further repatriations.
Representing Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Secretary to the State Government Barrister Musa Ikhilor reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to preserving the returned items.
He pledged to strengthen infrastructure and collaborate with the federal government to establish world-class storage and conservation facilities.
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