The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City has come under public attention following a protest that disrupted its scheduled preview events over the weekend. Demonstrators who stormed the museum site that  forced the evacuation of guests and staff, demanded that the institution hand over its premises and the Benin Bronzes to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.

The regrettable and embarrassing incident has led to the revocation of the certificate of occupancy (C-of-O) previously granted to MOWAA. The decision follows growing public discontent and strong objections from Oba Ewuare II over the demolition of the Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for the museum project.

MOWAA, in a statement, clarified that it operates as an independent, non-profit institution with no political affiliation, emphasizing that its mission is solely to preserve and showcase West African heritage through research, exhibitions, and creative collaboration.

With the C-of-O now withdrawn, the state government has announced that the site will be restored to its original use as a hospital.

The multi-million-dollar museum project — long anticipated as a cultural landmark — has been halted indefinitely pending any future resolution.