Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, yesterday, called for Rotary Club members’ collaboration for the return of over 3,000 looted Benin Artefacts, which, according to him, are with private collectors and some museums abroad.

The Benin monarch also urged the Rotary Club members across the globe to join the Benin Royal Court in driving the cultural advocacy.

Ewuare II spoke when he received Chief Executive Officer and Secretary-General of Rotary International, John Hewko, and his delegation in his palace in Benin.

He said: “Many of our artefacts are in the hands of private collectors in America. I know that because I have seen them.”

“Members of the Rotary Club are all over the place. I would like you to join forces to go and engage your European counterpart. Inform them that you are collaborating with the Benin Royal Court towards the return of about 3,000 artefacts that are out there.”

Earlier in his remark, Hewko extolled Oba Ewuare’s commitment in promoting peace and mediation over disputes in Edo State and beyond.

He said: “Your Royal Majesty, it is a great pleasure to be here in your Kingdom. I bring you greetings from Rotary International ― and on behalf of the 1.2 million Rotarians around the world.

“The concept of peace is extraordinarily important for us, and the good work and the service that we do in your Kingdom. We commend you for continuing to promote peace ― bringing communities and the people together, especially in a world that is so divided, with many challenges to confront.”