The demonstrators asserted that the opening of the Museum of West African Art (Mowaa) is a violation of Benin City’s cultural heritage, which falls under the authority of its traditional ruler, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
In a video circulating on social media, protesters were seen loudly chanting “Oba ghato kpere ise” (“Long live the king” in the Bini language) while foreign and local visitors were ushered out by security personnel.
The opening of the new Museum of West African Art has been postponed indefinitely after protest. When it will open, it is not yet clear.
