Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin has held a high level talks with the Chief Executive officer and Secretary-General of
Rotary International, John Hewko at his palace in Benin City, fostering collaboration for the return of over 3000 looted Benin artefacts with private collectors and some museums abroad after British forces invaded the Benin Royal Court in 1897 expedition.
Oba Ewuare made the pledge when he received the members of the delegation at Oba of Benin palace in Benin City where he 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 artefacts 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 artefacts that are out there”, according to the first Class traditional ruler.
Earlier in his remarks, 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, “Your Royal Majesty, it is with great pleasure to be here in your Kingdom. I bring you greeting from Rotary International ― and on behalf of the 1.2 million Rotarians around the world.
“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”, Hewko enthused.
Lovely