CBAAC seeks return stolen artefacts from UK, others
The government of the United Kingdom has been called upon to return to Nigeria stolen artefacts its officials took away from various m museums in the country.
The call was made in Lagos by Director-General of Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) Sir Ferdinand Anikwe, during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the Daily Times newspaper on Thursday.
The visit was to seek the support of heritage newspaper towards the hosting of the 40th Anniversary of FESTAC 77, billed for next year.
In the words of Anikwe, “The legality of the selling and buying of the stolen/looted artefacts has not yet been the object of any judicial investigation and adjudication. The Government of Nigeria reserves their right to challenge the legality and legitimacy of the looted objects. Incidentally, it is unfortunate that many think only the laws of the Europeans are applicable to the question of legitimacy and legality of these looted artefacts.
“Why should we think it is only the laws of Europeans who came thousands of miles away to steal the properties of Africans? Why apply the laws of the aggressor and ignore the laws of the injured party, especially since the place of the initial wrongdoing is here?”
The CBAAC boss also said that the forth-coming 40th Anniversary of FESTAC 77 would engender a lot of reunion of many Africans in the Disapora as well as accrue a lot of economic returns into the country.
Speaking during the visit, Group General Manager of the Daily Times, Olisa Egbunike, while lauding the efforts of CBAAC at promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, assured him that the newspaper, being a foremost news media, would support the celebration when it kicks off.
