MOWAA Preview Events Turn Violent Amid Armed Intrusion
The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) faced a dramatic disruption during its preview opening on Sunday, as armed individuals entered the venue and caused chaos. The incident reportedly involved the detention of several foreign dignitaries, leading to the postponement of the scheduled events for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday.
A Disturbing Scene Unfolds
According to reports, the attackers claimed that the museum “belonged to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.” They stormed the site with weapons, forcing the event—a private exhibition for investors, artists, and diplomats—to an early end. A trending video on social media captured the scene, showing guests, including foreign nationals, being evacuated by security agents amid visible disorder.
Among those trapped were the ambassadors of the European Union, Germany, and Denmark to Nigeria. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of cultural institutions and the stability of the region.
Postponement and Statement from MOWAA
In a statement released on its Instagram page, MOWAA confirmed the incident and attributed the demonstrations to disputes between Edo State’s previous and current administrations. The statement emphasized that although MOWAA was mentioned in the broader context of these grievances, it is an independent, non-profit institution with no ties to the former governor.
“As a precaution, all guests were safely escorted to secure locations and supported in continuing their travels to hotels, airports or other destinations in the city. The safety and well-being of our staff, visitors and partners remains our highest priority,” the statement said.
It further advised those planning to travel to Benin City for the MOWAA preview week to suspend their travel plans unless they have other essential reasons to be in the city.
Government Response and Calls for Calm
In response to the incident, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, stated that she has briefed the Presidency. In a statement, she mentioned that the issue is receiving attention at the highest levels of government.
“We are in active consultation with the Edo State Government, security agencies and all relevant stakeholders to establish a full understanding of the circumstances and to ensure an appropriate and proportionate response. The Constitution guarantees fundamental freedoms; it also requires that those freedoms be exercised responsibly. No right extends to the destruction or desecration of national cultural assets. We urge all parties to refrain from actions that escalate tensions,” she said.
De-Escalation Efforts by Authorities
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command reported that it has de-escalated the situation and restored normalcy to the state. A statement signed by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said that the police received credible intelligence regarding a planned protest aimed at disrupting the official launch of MOWAA.
In response, the Command made adequate security deployment to the venue to prevent any breakdown of law and order. “The protesters were addressed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, thereby de-escalating the tension. Normalcy was immediately restored, while expatriates and other guests at the venue were safely evacuated to their respective hotels without any hitch.”
“The Command assures the public that the situation is fully under control, and engagements are ongoing with relevant stakeholders to address any grievances through lawful and peaceful means,” the statement reads. It further urged members of the public to go about their lawful businesses without fear, as adequate security measures have been put in place across the state.