Police Evacuate Expatriates As Thugs Disrupt MOWAA Exhibition In Benin

POLICE in Edo State intervened on Sunday after thugs disrupted a private exhibition at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, forcing the evacuation of expatriates and guests.

The exhibition, organized ahead of MOWAA’s official commissioning on 11 November 2025, was stormed by a group claiming to be “sons and daughters of the Benin Kingdom,” who protested in defense of the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

Police swiftly deployed operatives to restore order and safely escort guests to their hotels. Deputy Police PRO ASP Eno Ikoedem said the intervention was peaceful and preventive, based on prior intelligence about the planned protest.

Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika personally addressed the protesters to de-escalate the situation.

In a separate operation, police rescued seven kidnapped farmers in Ewohimi, Esan South-East LGA, after they were abducted by suspected gunmen in Ikeken Forest. The victims were freed unhurt, while efforts continue to arrest the culprits.

CP Agbonika praised the combined efforts of police, soldiers, and vigilantes, reaffirming the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Edo State.