Edo Reclaims Museum Land, Set To Rebuild Demolished Hospital

By Ayodele Oni

Edo State Government has moved to reconstruct a hospital which was demolished and the land allocated for the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) project.

The state government has announced the reclamation of a portion of the land for the rebuilding of the health facility.

The MOWAA project was conceived by the immediate past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, despite people’s resentment to the project.

This decision, according to the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, underscores the administration’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare delivery for its citizens, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The decision is coming after Benin protest, organized by palace chiefs, civil society groups, youth organizations, and concerned Edo indigenes, condemned the demolition of a hospital for the inauguration of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

They decried the event as premature and disrespectful, arguing it bypasses ongoing deliberations in the Edo State House of Assembly and lacks the explicit endorsement of Oba Ewuare II.

Afegbua explained that the reclaimed land will be used for the reconstruction of the Benin General Hospital, which was previously demolished.

He stated, “People must be healthy before they can visit museums to appreciate artifacts,” highlighting the government’s stance on the fundamental importance of accessible healthcare.

The commissioner emphasized that the decision reflects a pragmatic approach to resource allocation, ensuring the well-being of the populace takes precedence.

“While the government initially considered demolishing the entire MOWAA structure, it ultimately opted for a compromise.

“Recognizing the significant investment of over N3 billion already made in the museum project, the decision was made to reclaim only a part of the land.

“This allows for the hospital’s reconstruction while halting further expansion of the museum, striking a balance between cultural preservation and the urgent need for improved healthcare facilities.”

Afegbua also expressed concern over the change of name from Edo Museum of West African Arts (EMOWAA) to Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA), describing it as disrespectful to the state’s heritage.