Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, recently met with John Hewko, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary-General of Rotary International, at his palace in Benin City to discuss the repatriation of stolen artefacts. The Oba of Benin appealed to Rotary International for assistance in recovering approximately 3,000 artefacts held in various collections. "Many of our artefacts are in the hands of private collectors in America. I know that because I have seen them," the Oba stated. He urged Rotarians to collaborate with the Benin Royal Court, saying, "Members of Rotary club are all over the place. I will like you to join forces to go, engage your European counterparts, inform them that you are collaborating with the Benin Royal Court towards the return of about 3,000 artefacts that are out there." Mr. Hewko expressed his pleasure at the visit, conveying greetings from the 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide. He emphasized Rotary's commitment to peace, adding, "The concept of peace is of extraordinary importance for us."
Historical Looting and Current Status
The discussions focused on the repatriation of over 3,000 Benin artefacts, which are currently held by private collectors and museums in various countries. Many of these historical items are located in America, according to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II. The artefacts were largely removed from the ancient Kingdom of Benin during the 1897 British Punitive Expedition. While some institutions have begun returning pieces, a significant number remain in private hands globally, complicating efforts for their complete restitution. The Oba's appeal to Rotary International shows the ongoing challenge of recovering these cultural properties.
Rotary's Global Network Potential
Oba Ewuare II specifically asked members of Rotary International to collaborate with the Benin Royal Court in promoting cultural advocacy for the restitution of the artefacts. The Oba emphasized the extensive reach of Rotary's membership, stating that Rotarians are "all over the place." He urged them to "join forces" and engage their European counterparts to inform them of the collaboration with the Benin Royal Court. This initiative aims to facilitate the return of the approximately 3,000 artefacts currently dispersed globally. The appeal notes the potential of Rotary's international network to support the cultural heritage claims of the Benin Kingdom.
Rotary Leader's Response
The artefacts in question were stolen after British forces invaded the Benin Royal Court during the 1897 expedition. Responding to the Oba's call for assistance, John Hewko, CEO and Secretary-General of Rotary International, commended Oba Ewuare II's commitment to promoting peace and mediation. Hewko specifically praised the Oba's efforts in Edo State and beyond, acknowledging the traditional ruler's role in fostering stability. This recognition from Rotary International's leadership signals potential support for the Oba's repatriation initiative, leveraging the organization's global network.
Advocacy and Future Steps
Oba Ewuare II's appeal to Rotary International for assistance in artefact repatriation leverages the organization’s significant global presence. Rotary International commands a membership of 1.2 million individuals worldwide, providing a broad network for advocacy. The Oba's strategy involves mobilizing this extensive membership to engage international counterparts and private collectors holding the artefacts. This approach seeks to build a collaborative front with the Benin Royal Court, aiming to facilitate the return of the culturally significant items. The widespread membership offers a potential pathway for raising awareness and fostering negotiations across various countries.
