The Federal Government has expressed concern over
reports of disturbances at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin
City, Edo State.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the
Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, stated that the ministry is closely
monitoring the situation and has briefed the Presidency, which is giving the
matter urgent attention.
According to Musawa, the ministry is in active
consultation with the Edo State Government, security agencies, and relevant
stakeholders to fully understand the circumstances and ensure an appropriate
response.
“Our cultural institutions are custodians of Nigeria’s
history, identity, and collective memory,” the minister said. “They are spaces
for learning, dialogue, and reconciliation. The reported disruption at MOWAA
not only endangers a treasured cultural asset but also threatens the peaceful
environment necessary for cultural exchange and the preservation of our
artistic patrimony for future generations.”
Musawa cautioned against actions that could escalate
tensions, emphasizing that while the Constitution guarantees fundamental
freedoms, no right extends to the destruction or desecration of national
cultural assets. She urged that disputes be resolved through constructive
dialogue, lawful channels, and mutual respect.
The minister reassured the MOWAA community and
cultural stakeholders that the Federal Government remains committed to
protecting spaces where the nation’s heritage is preserved and celebrated, and
that measures would be taken to safeguard cultural institutions while upholding
the rule of law.
“This episode should strengthen our resolve that
culture flourishes only in an environment of peace, respect, and justice. Let
us recommit to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural institutions and to resolving
our differences through dialogue and mutual respect for the common good,”
Musawa added.
The statement follows controversy surrounding the
MOWAA project. Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo criticized a perceived lack
of transparency in the project and constituted a committee, chaired by former
governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole, to ascertain the true legal and operational
status of the museum.
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