Tension In Edo As Governor Okpebholo Cancels MOWAA’s Certificate Of Occupancy

According to Ireporter Online, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially revoked the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) previously issued to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) by the former administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

The revocation, which was detailed in a government order dated October 21, was made on the grounds of “overriding public interest.” Governor Okpebholo invoked the powers conferred upon him under Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978, now known as the Land Use Act.

In the order, the governor stated that the land initially allocated to the Edo Museum of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE would be repossessed by the state and restored to its original purpose as the Benin Central Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Museum of West African Art, based in Benin City, has sought to clarify what it described as widespread misconceptions about its mission and role in the state’s cultural development.

In a statement signed by its Director, Mr. Phillip Ihenacho, MOWAA reaffirmed its commitment to working respectfully within Benin’s cultural framework and contributing to the preservation and promotion of West Africa’s artistic heritage. The institution emphasized that it holds His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, in the highest esteem and remains dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and goodwill with the Benin Kingdom.

MOWAA further denied allegations that it had falsely represented itself as the “Benin Royal Museum” to solicit funds. The museum encouraged all concerned authorities and donors to verify directly that it had never misrepresented its identity or purpose.

In a related statement, the Director of the MOWAA Institute, Ms. Ore Disu, reiterated the organization’s respect and loyalty to the Oba of Benin, assuring that its work continues to align with principles of cultural integrity and community collaboration.