The Netherlands returns looted Benin artefact, 129 years later

The Netherlands returned an artefact to Oba Ewuare II on October 20, 129 years after the 1897 invasion of the Benin Kingdom. The presentation took place at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City during celebrations marking the tenth anniversary of his coronation, with Dutch Consul General Frank Keurnorst and Museum De Fundatie executive director Beatrice van Bormann in attendance. Anniversary committee chairman Lucky Imasue said further artefacts were expected to be returned and that Benin artefacts belong to the Oba. Ewuare II also said he intended to re-establish ties with Portugal, the first European country to enter the kingdom.