Oba Of Benin Appeals To Rotary International For Repatriation Of Artefacts

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has appealed to Rotary International for the repatriation of the stolen Benin artifacts.
The Oba made the appeal when he held talks with the Chief Executive officer and Secretary-General of Rotary International, John Hewko at his palace in Benin City.
He said the essence was to foster collaboration with Rotary Club for the return of over 3,000 looted Benin artefacts with private collectors and some museums abroad after British forces invaded the Benin Royal Court in 1897 expedition.
The Monarch called on Rotarians to leverage their membership strength across the world, and join forces with the Benin Royal Court in driving the cultural advocacy.
“Many of our artifacts are in the hands of private collectors in America. I know that because I have seen them”.
“Members of Rotary club are all over the place. I will like you to join forces to go, engage your European counterpart. Inform them that you are collaborating with the Benin Royal Court towards the return of about 3000 artifacts that are out there,” Ewuare II said.
The Chief Executive officer and Secretary-General of Rotary International, John Hewko, extolled Oba Ewuare’s commitment in promoting peace and mediation over disputes in Edo State and beyond.
He said, “The concept of peace is extraordinary important for us and the good work and the service that we do in your kingdom. We commend you for continuing to promote peace ― bringing communities and the people together, especially in a world that is so divided, many challenges to confront.”