We have discussed with artists, masters and collectors about this topic, but what does it mean to the maven of the arts who is also a chief from the Benin Kingdom, the original home of some of these looted works? Do note the use of the word ‘works’, not just ‘artworks’.

Our guest, Chief Charles Uwesunyi-Edosomwan, is a mega lawyer, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria who has represented both sides of the political aisle and won the trust of both. He is also the Obasuyi of Benin Kingdom, a life member of the Nigerian Body of Benchers and a hero of the University of Benin.

Charles Edosomwan has been appointed a trustee of the proposed Benin Royal Museum by the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II alongside Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka and Prince Nduka Obaigbena and speaks with passion in a wide ranging conversation covering: 

• The return of the Benin Works (of course); 
• A trip down the kingdom’s cultural history;
• Establishing and funding the Benin Museum;
• His nearly military career; 
• His personal journey; 
• The Nigerian project and restructuring;
• Jimi Hendrix, Weather Report, Return to Forever (who knew?)

And yes, he tells great jokes - the ones with the killer punchlines? Yes, those ones.

Links Mentioned:

Chief Edosomwan on Instagram

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