The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), envisioned as a beacon of cultural pride in Benin City, has found itself at the center of controversy after thugs allegedly harassed international guests and donors during a recent event.
What Happened at MOWAA?
On 09 November 2025, reports emerged that organized thugs invaded the MOWAA premises in Benin City, targeting diplomats, art curators, and international donor representatives. The incident, which quickly trended on social media platform X, turned what was meant to be a peaceful cultural gathering into chaos.
Among those allegedly intimidated were foreign ambassadors and representatives from major international museums and governments. Netizen Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor described the act as "uncivilised" in a viral post, criticizing the harassment of foreigners who came to Benin City with altruistic intentions.
Roots of the Conflict
The tension surrounding MOWAA stems from a longstanding power struggle between Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Benin Royal Court led by Oba Ewuare II. While Governor Obaseki has been the primary driver behind MOWAA's creation and funding, traditional voices argue the project sidelines the Oba, who has historically been regarded as the custodian of Benin's cultural treasures.
The situation escalated when Governor Obaseki reportedly announced plans to "gift" the museum to the Oba as a birthday gesture. While presented as a peace offering, many perceived this as a political maneuver concerning a project already situated on sensitive cultural ground.
MOWAA's Response and Vision
In an official statement, MOWAA emphasized its status as "an independent, non-profit institution" and clarified that the former governor has no financial interest in the organization. The institution confirmed that all guests were safely escorted to secure locations and supported in continuing their travels.
As a precautionary measure, MOWAA has advised against visiting its campus until the situation stabilizes and has cancelled all preview events scheduled for November 9-11, 2025.
Despite the current controversy, MOWAA's broader vision remains significant. The museum represents one of Nigeria's largest cultural projects, designed to:
- Tell West African stories from a West African perspective
- Serve as a potential home for returned Benin Bronzes
- Position Nigeria as a global hub for West African art
- Boost tourism and create employment opportunities
For MOWAA to fulfill its potential as a cultural landmark, finding common ground between governmental and traditional authorities appears essential. The incident highlights the complex interplay between modern cultural institutions and traditional custodianship in contemporary Nigeria.
