The Edo State Government has announced that Governor Monday Okpebholo has reclaimed land previously occupied by the General Hospital in Benin City, paving the way for its reconstruction. The hospital had been demolished by former Governor Godwin Obaseki, and the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) was established on the site.

Speaking at a news briefing, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, emphasized that healthcare delivery takes precedence over a museum.

“It is only when people are well and healthy that they can visit a museum to appreciate artifacts,” Afegbua said.

The commissioner revealed that the government had already invested over N3 billion in the museum project, preventing the complete demolition of the structure.

Afegbua explained that concerns arose when the museum’s name was changed from Edo Museum of West African Arts (EMOWAA) to Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA).

“Removing ‘E,’ which stands for Edo, drew our initial suspicion. The explanation that it was ‘not marketable’ was not tenable. Respecting a state’s culture and tradition is essential, and we felt this was a slight on the Bini Empire,” he said.

To address the situation, the government adopted a middle-ground approach, curbing the museum’s expansion while restoring land for the hospital.

“The land demarcation is clear, and we will ensure compliance with the governor’s directive. While the museum’s first phase will be inaugurated, access to healthcare cannot be denied. The governor is determined to rebuild the General Hospital,” Afegbua stated.

This move underscores the Okpebholo administration’s focus on healthcare delivery, balancing cultural preservation with the immediate needs of the people.