The Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State, has postponed its official opening after protesters disrupted a private pre-opening event on Sunday.

Originally scheduled to open on Tuesday, the museum, launched five years ago by Nigerian businessman Phillip Ihenacho with support from the former governor, had invited donors and industry professionals for a private visit.

Around 20 men, some armed with wooden bats, stormed the museum courtyard, forcing guests to take refuge inside. The group caused minor damage to the reception area and exhibition space before guests were evacuated to a nearby hotel after about two hours.

“We have never pretended to be anything other than the Museum of West African Art,” Ihenacho told AFP, while noting that he believed the protesters were “representatives from the palace” of Oba Ewuare II.

The museum has been financed by private donors as well as international partners, including the French and German governments and the British Museum. It aims to house exhibition spaces, archives, and residencies for West African artists and craftspeople.

Nigeria’s Culture Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, condemned the incident, saying:
“The reported disruption at MOWAA not only endangers a treasured cultural asset but also threatens the peaceful environment necessary for cultural exchange and the preservation of our artistic patrimony.”

She added that the government is consulting with Edo State authorities and security agencies to understand the situation fully and ensure a proportionate response.

The incident highlights political and traditional tensions in Benin City, where disputes persist over control of cultural assets, including efforts to recover the historic Benin Bronzes looted during the colonial era.