Tinubu Forms Presidential Panel to Tackle MOWAA Dispute Amid Benin Palace, Edo Govt Tensions
Story: written by Uzuh Rita November 13,2025
President Bola Tinubu has established a presidential committee to address the growing controversy surrounding the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State.
The move follows the recent revocation of MOWAA’s Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and rising tensions over the demolition of the Central Hospital, which was cleared to make way for the museum — a decision that drew opposition from Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin.
The dispute intensified earlier in the week when protesters loyal to the Benin Palace disrupted a preview exhibition at the museum.
To restore calm and find a resolution, Tinubu appointed a high-level committee chaired by Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
Members of the committee include representatives from:
- The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy
- The Presidency
- The National Council for Arts and Culture
- The Edo State Government
- The Palace of the Oba of Benin
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- The German and French Embassies
- The National Commission for Museums and Monuments
- MOWAA
According to Chindaya Ahmadu, the ministry’s director of press, the panel’s mandate is to conduct consultations, gather facts, and present actionable recommendations that balance Nigeria’s cultural priorities with global partnerships and diplomatic interests.
Musawa said the president’s action reflects “a strong commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through lawful and peaceful dialogue.”
She emphasized that cultural institutions are “the pillars of our national identity” and should be protected through collaboration between traditional custodians and modern governance structures.
The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations directly to President Tinubu for prompt action.
“The federal government reiterates that while freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it must be exercised responsibly,” the ministry added. “Nigeria’s cultural treasures are a shared legacy that deserve both legal and moral protection.”
