Oba of Benin Receives Two Looted Artefacts from US Custodian

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, received two artefacts—a mother hen sculpture and a bronze plaque—on Monday.

These artefacts were returned by the University of Iowa Museum, marking another significant restitution of cultural heritage to the Benin Kingdom.

This event follows a similar occasion on May 18, when the Oba received two artefacts from Germany, also looted during the 1897 invasion of the Benin Kingdom. The Oba highlighted the importance of these artefacts, noting their spiritual significance and the long-standing efforts of his predecessors in advocating for their return.

The Oba expressed gratitude towards former President Muhammadu Buhari, who had clarified the ownership of such artefacts through a gazette before leaving office. He appealed to political leaders to preserve the traditions and customs of the land.

Mr. Cory Gundlach, Curator of African Art at the Stanley Museum of Art, Iowa, personally apologized to the Oba for the use of the artefacts as teaching materials without consent. He pledged to facilitate the return of other looted artefacts held in various institutions.