Sweden Pledges to Return 39 Artefacts to Oba of Benin Palace
The Swedish government has announced its resolve to return 39 pieces of Benin Artefacts in its museum to the custody of the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
The Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, made the Swedish government’s commitment known when she paid a courtesy visit to Oba of Benin in his palace.
Ambassador Hahn-Englund informed the Oba of Benin that Sweden and Nigeria are trading partners in infrastructure, telecommunication, energy and other businesses that supported the economies significantly.
Ambassador Hahn-Englund said “Also, I would like to mention that with cooperation we have in culture, education with Nigeria, I would like to mention the decision of why the Swedish government has to return 39 artefacts to Benin Kingdom.”
In his response, Oba Ewuare II expressed his deepest gratitude to the Swedish government for the intervention, adding “Edo people also welcome this decision”.
The Royal Father highlighted that the federal government-backed Benin Royal Museum project was on course, and lauded partners for their support towards the project.
The Benin Monarch also commended the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), responsible for the preservation, promotion and development of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
He revealed that the demand for the return of looted Benin artefacts had been on since the reign of Oba Akenzua II, adding “And you are here today (Wednesday) telling us that it has been approved. This has been my request long time ago. God’s time is always the best.”
The Ambassador Hahn-Englund in the accompany of her husband and a member of the diplomatic mission presented a souvenir to Oba Ewuare II, who also gave a copy of the federal government gazette on all Benin artefacts to the envoy.
