The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, says 16 gold-plated beaded crowns were stolen from the Alaafin palace during the British invasion of Oyo in November 1895, describing the artifacts as symbols of cultural, spiritual, and historical significance to the Yoruba people.

Oba Owoade made the disclosure while receiving the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway, at his Boroboro private residence in Oyo town, Oyo State.

According to a statement by Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Holloway pledged that the commission “will work assiduously on the repatriation of Oyo artefacts as the agency has done for that of Benin.”

In his response, Oba Owoade stressed the historical and cultural importance of the artifacts, stressing the kingdom’s desire to have them returned.

“About 16 gold-plated beaded crowns were stolen during the dastardly raid of the palace in November 1895. These artefacts are cultural symbols and carry spiritual and historical significance, and their return is essential for the preservation of heritage and identity,” he said.

He noted that the old Oyo empire was “a formidable political and military stronghold, renowned for its administrative sophistication and cultural influence, as its artifacts, including sculptures, regalia, and other items, document the history, political transitions, and daily life of the powerful era.”

“The removal of these artifacts, often as plunder or war trophies during 19th-century British punitive expeditions and military campaigns, is a direct result of colonial aggression. They are physical reminders of the means by which Britain established trade dominance and amassed colonies.

“The Alaafin is the traditional custodian of these traditions, serving as a bridge between the past and the future of the Yoruba people. Their return symbolises a step towards cultural rejuvenation and national pride. The return of these objects is seen as essential for Nigeria’s development, as valuing local cultural assets is key to economic growth through cultural tourism and the empowerment of local communities.”

Archbishop Emeritus Ayo Ladigbolu also weighed in, providing historical context on the 1895 invasion by Captain Robert Bower (Ogun-Pepe).

He said, “The stolen Oyo artifacts hold significant cultural, spiritual, and historical value for the Yoruba people, serving as tangible links to their powerful past as an empire. Their removal, often during colonial conflicts, represents a historical injustice and a loss of identity for the originating community.

“The artifacts are not merely art objects; they are cultural symbols essential for the preservation of heritage and identity. Like the Benin Bronzes, many African artifacts are considered living cultural heritage with spiritual and ritual significance.”

He emphasised the broader importance of the items, noting, “Their presence is crucial for traditional ceremonies, festivals (such as the Sango and Oranmiyan festivals), and the overall spiritual well-being of the community. The objects provide historical context and validation for the heritage and culture of the pillaged communities. When removed, this context is lost, turning items of profound local meaning into mere museum exhibits in Western institutions.”

The Alaafin and NCMM officials expressed optimism that the ongoing efforts to repatriate the crowns would restore an essential part of Yoruba history and cultural identity. (PUNCH)

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