The Horniman Museum located in south-east London says it has agreed to return 72 looted artefacts to Nigeria.
The artefacts, looted in the 19th Century from the Kingdom of Benin, include 12 brass plaques, known as Benin Bronzes, a brass cockerel and a key to the king’s palace.
The Museum said ownership of the 72 objects would be transferred to the Nigerian government.
“The evidence is very clear that these objects were acquired through force, and external consultation supported our view that it is both moral and appropriate to return their ownership to Nigeria.” Eve Salomon, chair of the museum, said.
The transfer follows a request by Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in January.
“The Horniman is pleased to be able to take this step and we look forward to working with the NCMM to secure longer-term care for these precious artefacts.” Eve Salomon added.
The museum says it has consulted with community members, visitors, schoolchildren, academics, heritage professionals and artists based in Nigeria and the UK.
Also read: Nigeria, Germany Sign Declaration on Return of Artefacts
“All of their views on the future of the Benin objects were considered, alongside the provenance of the objects,” the museum explained.
The museum’s chair said it was “moral and appropriate” to return them.
In recent years, there has been increased political pressure on European governments and museums to hand back looted artefacts.
These include ivory carvings and metal sculptures known as the Benin Bronzes.
Zainab Sa’id
