The Federal Government has condemned Sunday’s mob attack at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, signed by the minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said it was a dangerous precedent for national unity and global reputation.
The minister further disclosed that they were monitoring developments closely while working with the Edo State Government and security agencies to ensure an appropriate response.
“The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has received with deep concern reports of disturbances at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City and is closely monitoring developments,” the statement read.
“Our cultural institutions are custodians of Nigeria’s history, identity and collective memory. They are spaces for learning, dialogue and reconciliation.”
The Ministry warned that the reported disruption not only endangered a treasured cultural asset but also threatened the peaceful environment necessary for cultural exchange.
“The Honourable Minister has briefed the Presidency on this matter, which is receiving attention at the highest levels of government,” it added, urging all parties to exercise restraint and resolve disputes lawfully.
The Ministry reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural institutions.
“We will take the necessary measures to protect these spaces where our heritage is preserved and celebrated. Culture flourishes only in an environment of peace, respect and justice,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, MOWAA confirmed the closure of its campus for three days following the incident, announcing the suspension of all preview week activities until further notice.
“The demonstration appeared to stem from disputes between the previous and current state administrations,” it said, stressing that MOWAA is an independent, non-profit institution and that all guests were safely escorted to secure locations.
Recall that Dockaysworld earlier reported that tension erupted on Sunday when a mob stormed the MOWAA opening, chanting pro-Oba songs and accusing organisers of undermining the Benin Kingdom.
Police intervened to escort visitors to safety as the chaos unfolded.
The clash reignited long-standing controversy over the ownership of the project, with the Oba of Benin and Governor Monday Okpebholo both insisting it should revert to its original identity as the Benin Royal Museum.
The incident has since drawn global media attention, with many expressing concern over its negative impact on Nigeria’s image as a cultural and tourist destination.
