Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revoked the land title granted to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) by the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. The revocation, dated October 21, 2025, cites overriding public interest as the reason, aiming to restore the property to its original use as the historic Benin Central Hospital [1][2][3].
The decision follows controversy surrounding MOWAA, with the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, accusing the former administration of diverting donor funds and altering the original plan for the Benin Royal Museum without the palace's consent. Okpebholo's move is seen as a reversal of Obaseki's decision, sparking debate on the museum's future [2][4][7].
The revoked property, measuring approximately 6.210 hectares, was the site of the demolished Central Hospital. MOWAA has clarified it doesn't claim ownership of Benin Bronzes, emphasizing its focus on broader West African art, research, education, and conservation [1][2][4].
*Topics:* Edo State, Museum of West African Art, Land Revocation, Benin Central Hospital, Cultural Heritage, Nigerian Politics, Governance
