Thugs storm private exhibition in Edo, trap EU, French, Danish envoys

What began as a calm Sunday morning of art, culture, and international collaboration turned into pandemonium when armed thugs invaded a private exhibition hosted by the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State.

The event, organized as a private viewing for select investors, artists, and international dignitaries, was violently disrupted when a mob forcefully stormed the premises, declaring that the museum “belonged to the Oba of Benin.”

Eyewitnesses said the group arrived wielding weapons and physically assaulted some individuals on site, before damaging properties in an attempt to breach the secure area where guests were seated.

Among those present were the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, the French Ambassador, and the Danish Ambassador, who, along with other attendees, were trapped inside the facility.

Security personnel and event organisers acted swiftly to protect the guests and contain the situation before law enforcement authorities intervened.