AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands (Kashmir English): The Netherlands is going to return 119 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, nearly 128 years after they were looted by British soldiers and later sold to the Dutch, as part of an effort to address the historical injustice.
The artifacts were looted from the Kingdom of Benin during a raid by British soldiers in 1897. These include ornaments, plaques, and figures, now set for repatriation.
Dutch minister of education, culture, and science, Eppo Bruins approved the decision following Nigeria’s request for their repatriation. “This restitution helps address a historical injustice that continues to have an impact today.”
The largest collection being returned consists of 113 artifacts, including personal ornaments, plaques, and figures.
Additionally, the Dutch city of Rotterdam will return six more items: a coconut casing, a bell, three relief plaques, and a staff. “Cultural heritage is vital for preserving and understanding a nation’s history. The Benin Bronzes are an essential part of Nigeria’s heritage, and it is right that they are going back,” the Dutch minister added.
Originally looted by the British soldiers from the Kingdom of Benin in 1897, the artifacts were later sold and eventually acquired by the Dutch government.
The decision to return them is part of a worldwide movement to address the restitution of cultural treasures looted during colonial era.
The Netherlands has now repatriated looted artifacts five times, following extensive research into their origins. The Dutch government is also reviewing requests from India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia for the return of their cultural assets.
Nigeria’s response
Director-general of the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway has appreciated the Netherlands’ cooperation and hoped the decision sets a positive example for other nations to repatriate lost or looted antiquities.
