20th June, 2014
Jethro Ibileke/Benin
The palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa, has taken delivery of two bronze works looted by British soldiers from the Oba palace during British invasion of Benin in 1897.
Following the delivery, the Benin palace was agog with jubilation as radiant palace chiefs moved about discussing the return of the artifacts to their original home.
Dr. Adrian Mark Walker, great grand son of Capt. Philip Walker, one the soldiers who participated in the invasion, returned the bronze works to the Oba Erediauwa, who’s great grand father, Oba Ovonramwen, was the Oba of Benin during the British invasion.
The elated Benin Monarch, while receiving the treasured items, described Walker’s gesture in returning them as the best birthday gift he has ever received — as the historic event happened days to his birthday.
He therefore, called on Britain and others still in possession of Benin looted Bronze works to emulate Dr. Walker and return them to Benin, their home of origin.
Speaking later at a reception held for him and members of his entourage, Dr. Walker said of his decision to return the Bronze works. “I have no idea it would cause so much excitement. Seeing this, I feel this is the right thing to do.”
Edo state governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, in his speach, commended Dr. Walker for having a heart of gold in returning the bronze works. He expressed joy that the historic event was taking place during his time as governor of the state.
The Minister of Culture and Tourism and officials of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), shunned the historic event.
It would be recalled that there had earlier been disagreements between NCMM and the palace of the Benin Oba over arrangements for the return of the items, with the Commission insisting that they be presented at Abuja, but Dr. Walker allegedly chose to present them in Benin, the original home of the items.