Artifacts smuggled to Germany 127 years ago returned to Nigeria
Historical artifacts from the Kingdom of Benin, which were smuggled to Germany 127 years ago, have been returned to Nigeria. While Nigeria continues to insist on the repatriation of historical artifacts stolen during the colonial era, some countries, particularly the United Kingdom, are not very receptive to the idea of returning them.
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Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments of Nigeria, Olugbile Holloway, stated that the historical artifacts from the Kingdom of Benin era that were smuggled to Germany have been handed over to authorities in Edo State.
Holloway noted that the returned items include bronzes and royal stools that were smuggled abroad in 1897.
Stating that the historical artifacts will be exhibited in the museum, Holloway emphasized that efforts to revive and display culture and heritage will continue.
LACK OF RECEPTIVENESS TO THE IDEA OF 'REPATRIATION'
Hundreds of historical artifacts belonging to Nigeria from the pre-colonial and colonial periods are currently on display in various museums across the United States and European countries.
While Nigeria continues to insist on the repatriation of historical artifacts stolen during the colonial era, some countries, particularly the United Kingdom, are not very receptive to the idea of returning them.