After the theft of thousands of items from the British Museum, Nigeria has began another call for the return of hundreds of stolen Benin Bronzes. More than 8 million objects make up the total collection of the museum, but only about 80,000 items are usually on public display at once. The renowned tourist attraction, after some items got stolen, damaged or went missing, has launched an independent review of security. These items were kept in a storeroom owned by one of the collections of the museum.
Also, the theft has caused the dismissal of a member of staff as the Museum is fully prepared to take legal action against this staff member. Also, an investigation is being conducted by the Met’s Economic Crime Command. Director of Nigeria National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Abba Isa Tijani, stated that it is quite surprising that countries and museums that have asserted that the Benin Bronzes would lack security in Nigeria are experiencing thefts in their space.
These items were taken out of the country illegally and have to be returned.
According to Mr. Tijani, the Benin Collection is described as “the subject of loot”. He made his statement asserting that the items were taken out of the country illegally and they have to be returned. He affirmed that this must happen whether or not they are secure there as it is not a problem. The concern remains that the stolen artefacts sent back to Nigeria, precisely to the communities that own them. The pillaged historical artefacts stolen by British troops in 1897 have also received increasing calls for their return.
In 2022, the British Museum stated its plan to lend their looted Benin Bronzes collection. However, it did not state whether or not these artefacts will be sent back to Africa for good. It was also disclosed by the museum that it possesses approximately 300 historic photographs and 928 objects that have certain connections with the Benin Kingdom. The Museum was reached out to for clarifications as to whether or not items from this collection were missing or damaged but the museum refused to comment during police investigation.
None of the stolen items have been on public display recently.
The museum affirmed that majority of the items that were looted were small pieces that were stored in a storeroom that belongs to one of the museum’s collections. These items include gems of semi-precious stones, gold jewelry, and glass that has been in existence since the 15th century BC and 19th century AD. None of these items have been on public display in recent times as they have been kept majorly for research and academic purposes. Reports have it that some of the items have been sold on eBay and may never be retrieved.
Director of the British Museum, Hartwig Fisher, said that the incident is very unusual, affirming that himself and his colleagues ensure serious protection of every item in their care. Nevertheless, the museum is sorry for the incident and has put an end to it. Also, the museum and its members of staff are determined to make things right. The security arrangements of the tourist attraction has been tightened as it has also collaborated with experts from outside.
90 percent of the cultural heritage of Africa are kept in Europe.
With this partnership, there will be a definitive account of every item that is either missing, damaged or stolen. In 2022, last year, the museum said that their Benin Collection is massive and includes 189 brass plaques or fragments, 12 pieces of coral regalia, about 100 ivory tusks and armlets, and a good number of sculptural works in brass or bronze casting. According to French art historians, it was estimated that about 90 percent of the cultural heritage of Africa are kept in Europe.
Related Link
British Museum: Website
Nigeria calls for return of Benin Bronzes — This happened after a theft incident at the British Museum where they are kept. – Express your point of view.
I completely understand and share your concern regarding the theft incident at the British Museum involving the Benin Bronzes. These artifacts hold immense cultural and historical significance for Nigeria, and their rightful return is of utmost importance. The call for their repatriation is not only a demand for justice but also a plea to preserve and honor our cultural heritage.
The Benin Bronzes are not just objects of art; they embody the rich history, traditions, and craftsmanship of the Benin Kingdom. These masterpieces were looted during the infamous Punitive Expedition of 1897, a dark chapter in our history. Returning them would not only rectify the injustices of the past but also serve as a step towards healing and reconciliation.
The Benin Bronzes are not mere commodities; they are symbols of our identity and pride. Returning them would allow Nigerians to reconnect with their cultural heritage and strengthen our national identity. It would also provide an opportunity for future generations to appreciate and learn from these remarkable artifacts.
The repatriation of the Benin Bronzes is not an isolated issue; it is part of a broader global conversation about the restitution of cultural heritage. Many countries have already taken steps to return looted artifacts to their rightful owners. By joining this movement, Nigeria can set a powerful example and contribute to the larger discourse on decolonization and cultural equity.
While the process of repatriation may be complex and require diplomatic negotiations, it is essential to persevere in our efforts. The rightful return of the Benin Bronzes would not only restore our cultural heritage but also promote cultural exchange and understanding between nations. It would be a testament to the power of dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect.
After the theft of thousands of items from the British Museum, Nigeria has began another call for the return of hundreds of stolen Benin Bronzes. More than 8 million objects make up the total collection of the museum, but only about 80,000 items are usually on public display at once. This call came as a result of some items that either got stolen, damaged or went missing, and has launched an independent review of security. The theft has caused the dismissal some members of staff as the Museum is fully prepared to take legal action against this staff member.Abba Isa Titania hinted that countries and museums that have asserted that the Benin Bronzes would lack security in Nigeria are experiencing thefts in their space.Many other nations of the world have begun taken steps to return looted artifacts to their rightful owners and Nigeria should not be left behind for this can contribute to more cultural equity. The process of repatriation may be tedious and require diplomatic negotiations, it is more important to continue the process until the all the artifacts are returned back and this will restore our cultural heritage and promote exchange and understanding between nations.
Nigeria’s request for the Benin Bronzes’ return is a development in the continuing discussion regarding the return of looted antiquities. Despite disagreements, it is crucial to give these artefacts’ cultural relevance and historical context top priority.
Nigeria has launched a new request for the restitution of hundreds of stolen Benin Bronzes following the theft of thousands of artefacts from the British Museum. The museum’s collection totals more than 8 million artefacts, although only 80,000 of them are often on exhibit for visitors at once. It is more crucial to continue the process until all the items are returned because doing so will restore our cultural legacy and foster international exchange and understanding. The repatriation procedure may be time-consuming and entail diplomatic talks