The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has revealed that 16 gold-plated beaded crowns were stolen from the palace during the British invasion of Oyo in November 1895, describing the missing artefacts as irreplaceable symbols of Yoruba identity.

Naijaonpoint reports that the monarch disclosed this while receiving the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, at his Boroboro private residence in Oyo.

According to a statement by Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Holloway assured that the NCMM would work diligently to secure the repatriation of Oyo artefacts, just as it has done with the Benin Bronzes.

Oba Owoade stressed the significance of the stolen crowns, describing them as deeply woven into the history, spirituality and identity of the Oyo kingdom.

He said, “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.”

The monarch recalled the prominence of the old Oyo empire, describing it as a “formidable political and military stronghold, renowned for its administrative sophistication and cultural influence, as its artefacts, including sculptures, regalia, and other items, document the history, political transitions, and daily life of the powerful era.

“The removal of these artefacts, 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.”

“These Artefacts Are Living Heritage, Not Just Museum Pieces” — Ladigbolu

Archbishop Emeritus, Ayo Ladigbolu, also spoke during the visit, offering historical context on the 1895 invasion led by British official Captain Robert Bower (Ogun-Pepe).

He said, “The stolen Oyo artefacts 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 artefacts are not merely art objects; they are cultural symbols essential for the preservation of heritage and identity. Like the Benin Bronzes, many African artefacts 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.”

Both the Alaafin and NCMM leadership expressed confidence that ongoing repatriation efforts would restore a major part of Yoruba history.