Okpebholo Reclaims MOWAA Land To Rebuild Edo General Hospital

According to Ireporter Online, the Edo State Government has announced plans by Governor Monday Okpebholo to reclaim land previously ceded to the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City for the reconstruction of the state’s demolished General Hospital. The hospital, which was pulled down during the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, had its entire land allocated to the museum project.

Speaking during a press briefing in Benin City, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, stated that Governor Okpebholo places greater importance on healthcare delivery than on museum expansion. He noted that the government’s decision reflects its commitment to the well-being of citizens, emphasizing that “people must be healthy before they can visit museums to appreciate artifacts.”

Afegbua revealed that although the government initially considered demolishing the entire MOWAA structure, it decided against it due to the state’s prior investment of over N3 billion in the project. Instead, a compromise was reached to reclaim part of the land for rebuilding the General Hospital while restricting further expansion of the museum.

He also disclosed that suspicions were raised when the museum’s name was changed from “Edo Museum of West African Arts (EMOWAA)” to “Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA),” a move the government considered disrespectful to the state’s heritage. “The removal of the letter ‘E’—which stands for Edo—was seen as a slight to the people of the state and their history. The explanation that the name wasn’t marketable was unacceptable,” Afegbua said.

He further noted that the government’s “middle ground” approach aims to balance cultural preservation with public welfare. “We have drawn clear boundaries and will ensure compliance with the governor’s directive. The people of Edo deserve both access to healthcare and the preservation of their cultural identity,” he added.

Afegbua confirmed that preparations are underway to commence the rebuilding of the General Hospital, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to quality healthcare for residents.