By Ayodele Oni
Edo State Government on Monday explained its role in the planned return of stolen Benin Kingdom artefacts to the Kingdom, with a pledge that, Government will not engage in “disrespectful exchanges” with the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
A statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Mr Osarodion Ogie, stated that: “The attention of the Edo State Government (EDSG) has been drawn to the widely publicised media statement issued by the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.
“It is concerning that the statement appears to have created the impression that there is a major conflict between the interests of the EDSG and His Royal Majesty with regards to the laudable national milestone of having our highly valued artefacts returned home to Nigeria.
“The Government of Edo State and the Governor have always acted transparently, and in consonance with existing Federal and State laws, in all matters relating to the proposed return of the artefacts and monuments.
“The actions of the Government thus far, on this issue, have been driven by selfless, patriotic considerations and in the best interest of Edo State and Edo people.
“The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has displayed and will continue to display immense respect for our traditional institutions and, therefore, will continue to make effort to secure a private audience with His Royal Majesty to discuss his concerns.
“The Governor has consequently ordered that on no account should anyone, whether in government, or acting independently, engage in disrespectful exchanges and/or altercation with our revered Royal Majesty and the Benin Royal Palace.
“Governor Obaseki, meanwhile, expresses his gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and other officials of the Federal Government for their patriotic and tireless efforts that have brought us to the verge of this eagerly anticipated achievement which has remained elusive for over a century.
“While thanking and congratulating the Federal Government, the President, the Minister, the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin and all stakeholders who have contributed to the successes so far recorded in this endeavour, the Governor assures that he will continue to work assiduously with all local and international stakeholders for the eventual and final return of these valued records of our great and glorious heritage back to Benin City for the benefit of Edo people, Nigerians and the black race.”
The Oba of Benin had, last week, requested that the Federal Government should take custody of the artefacts to be returned from Europe temporarily.
Oba Ewuare insisted that the rightful destination of the artefacts should be the Benin Royal Museum, rather than a private hand being sponsored by the State Government.
