The Edo House of Assembly ad-hoc committee has begun investigating the operations and funding of the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA).

The committee launched its fact-finding probe on Thursday in Benin, giving stakeholders the chance to testify before members.

It opened the inquiry with MOWAA’s representative, Afolabi SAN, who sought more time to review documents presented by his client.

The managing director of EDOGIS, Tony Ikpasaja, outlined how 4.6 hectares originally allocated to the central hospital were later ceded to MOWAA.

He explained that the land, valued at about N33 million, was acquired at no cost, alongside an additional N1 billion provided to MOWAA.

Former solicitor-general, Faith Osadolor, who signed the MOWAA agreement on May 14 2024, was faulted for approving it without verifying financial claims.

Representatives of the Oba of Benin’s palace, led by Osaro Idah, distanced the palace from the deal, calling it fraudulent.

The committee criticised the lack of verifiable evidence supporting MOWAA’s claim of raising N27 billion for the project.

Committee chairman, Addeh Isibor, said the hearing sought to establish MOWAA’s status, adding that more stakeholders would be invited for clarity.

The sitting was adjourned until Monday, November 24, for continuation of the hearing.

Some Benin indigenes had earlier protested MOWAA’s creation by the former administration to house returned European artefacts.

They insisted the artefacts should have been returned to the Oba’s palace, from where they were taken, rather than kept in a new museum.

They said building a separate museum insulted their ancestors and argued that any new facility should be located within the palace grounds.

(NAN)