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Prince Joseph Ogiehor, representing the Benin Royal Family and Edo Core Perspective (ECP) Channel, delivered a powerful presentation demanding the unconditional return of the Benin Bronzes and other looted artifacts taken during the brutal British invasion of 1897.
Addressing a diverse audience of cultural custodians, scholars, and global media, Prince Joseph recounted the colonial assault on the Benin Kingdom that led to the theft of more than 3,000 priceless artifacts, sacred symbols of Edo identity, heritage, and royalty.
“These bronzes are not museum pieces,” he said. “They are the spirit of our people. Their continued captivity is a continuation of injustice.”
Speaking both as a Royal Family member and a proud Edolite, Prince Joseph expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the fact that these treasures remain withheld, with foreign institutions attaching conditions to their return.
“It is a shameful paradox, the thief giving terms to the rightful owner,” he added, drawing applause from the audience.
He further reflected on Nigeria’s own complicated colonial past, highlighting how the forced amalgamation of regions in 1914 by the British was designed for exploitation, not unity.
“Our nation and our heritage have long been manipulated. It is time to rewrite that story, starting with restitution.”
The presentation was met with enthusiastic support. Members of the LOOT forum, moved by the sincerity and historical clarity of Prince Joseph’s address, pledged to support the drive for the return of these artifacts to their rightful home in the Benin Kingdom.
The event marked a significant success for ECP Channel and for the broader movement advocating for cultural justice in Africa.
As Prince Joseph concluded: “Restitution is not just about returning objects, It’s about restoring dignity, history, and truth.”
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