In a significant cultural and historical milestone, Oba Ewuare II of Benin received two valuable artefacts—the mother hen and a bronze plaque—returned by the University of Iowa Museum, USA, on Monday. This gesture marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to reclaim stolen cultural heritage.
Cory Gundlach, curator of African Art at the University of Iowa Museum, presented the artefacts on behalf of the institution. Gundlach offered a formal apology to the Oba for the use of these items as teaching materials in the university’s curriculum. He also committed to ensuring the return of additional artefacts currently held elsewhere.
These artefacts, looted during the British invasion of the Benin Palace in 1897, are highly symbolic, representing a crucial part of Benin’s cultural heritage. Oba Ewuare II, receiving the items in a ceremonial handover at his palace, highlighted the important role played by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Buhari’s administration had issued a gazette clarifying the rightful ownership of such artefacts.
The Oba praised his ancestors for initiating the repatriation process, acknowledging that the achievement of recovering these items occurred during his own reign. He stressed the deep spiritual significance of the artefacts, underscoring their importance beyond mere physical items.
In his address, Oba Ewuare II called on political leaders to support the preservation of Benin’s traditions and customs, emphasizing the broader cultural implications of safeguarding such heritage.
