Netherlands government returns 119 stolen artefacts to Oba of Benin
Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, received 119 stolen artefacts from the Government of the Netherlands.
Oba Ewuare attributed the return of the artefacts to divine intervention, while thanking President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhamadu Buhari for their support and commitment.
The monarch said both Tinubu and Buhari ensured that the artefacts were not looted for another round.
“There were groups in this country believed to be an international cartel that had all sorts of conspiracy to enable them to re-loot our artefacts,” he said.
Oba Ewuare expressed gratitude to the government of the Netherlands for working with them, adding that the gesture had reawakened the courage and morale of Benin people.
Oba Ewuare also commended the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments for his efforts in retrieving the artefacts.
Oba Ewuare urged youths to be strong and resilient in the face of adversity.
The traditional ruler emphasised that the return of the artefacts was a testament to the power of determination and prayer.
Director-General of National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway, stated that the commission and the Benin Royal Palace were working tirelessly to ensure more return of stolen artefacts.
Holloway noted that the 119 artefacts were the largest number so far received of several stolen artefacts.
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