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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Federal Government, yesterday, returned two artifacts to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, carried to Germany, but returned to Nigeria in 2022.
The artifacts, a wooden and bronze stools, said to be in the custody of the Federal Government since 2022, were delivered to the palace by the Director General, National Commission for Museum and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway.
He told the Oba that he was at the palace to introduce himself to him, having assumed office recently, adding that he was also at the palace with a surprise for the monarch.
The (NCMM) Director General then opened the box to reveal the two stools to the amazement of the Oba who broke into a dance and was joined by other subjects in the palace.
“I have come to the palace to introduce myself and my team to the Oba and to let the Oba know that we are ready to work with the kingdom.
“Apart from this, I also have a surprise for the Oba and hopefully this will be the beginning of better things to come”, he said.
The Benin monarch who was excited by the return of the artifacts, thanked Holloway for the surprise, saying: “You don’t know what you have done, but I am really grateful for this gesture” and gave the Director General a big chunk of white chalk to show his appreciation.
