The Alaafin of Oyo-elect, Oba Akeem Owoade, has stated his readiness to ensure artefacts taken away by the British in 1895 were returned to the kingdom.

“Oba Owoade would make sure that the artefacts taken away by the British in 1895 are brought back with some payments,” a statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, on Tuesday, read.

Nigeria recently successfully negotiated the return of Benin artefacts looted during the 1897 British expedition.

The artefacts were repatriated to the country and handed over to the Oba of Benin.

These artefacts are cultural symbols and carry spiritual and historical significance, and their return is essential for the preservation of heritage and identity.

Speaking further in the statement, Alaafin Owoade said he would ensure the artefacts were returned with some payments made as compensation.

He disclosed that he had negotiated with international organisations, which he said, have agreed to support him to develop his kingdom.

He reiterated his resolve to take job-seeking graduate youths off the streets and promised vocational skills for the youth.

He also promised to empower widows and widowers to improve their socioeconomic lives.

The traditional ruler assured the people that he would continue from where his predecessor, the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, stopped, by promoting culture and improving on Sango and Oranmiyan festivals.

The paramount ruler added that he would assist some degree holders and Higher National Diploma graduates to acquire cyber security skills, to checkmate the urge for greener pastures abroad.

“What is more, the development of health facilities has been my priority and I want to be remembered for it during my reign,” Alaafin Owoade said. (The PUNCH)