Benin, Edo – The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) has issued a strongly worded rebuttal to recent claims by the Edo State Government that the construction of its flagship MOWAA Institute in Benin City cost just N4.1 billion, asserting that the actual total expenditure stands at approximately N22 billion.

In a press statement released on Wednesday and widely shared on social media, MOWAA described the government's figure as a misrepresentation of only the initial civil works bill of quantities from September 2022.

The organization emphasized that this amount excludes critical components such as mechanical and electrical works, specialized equipment, fit-out, and furnishings.

It also does not account for the naira devaluation during the project period, which nearly doubled costs, nor subsequent design upgrades to climate control, energy, and security systems.

"Other items not reflected in the 2022 bill of quantities are the changes in design and upgrades to the civil scope of work, and architectural design, engineering and quantity surveyor fees and expenses," the statement read, adding that all costs are backed by verifiable documentary evidence, including invoices and surveyor reports available for inspection.

The controversy erupted amid broader scrutiny of MOWAA's funding and operations, with the Edo State House of Assembly launching an ad-hoc probe into the project's finances earlier this month.

Last week, the House of Representatives also ordered an investigation following public outcry over the museum's establishment and governance, amid allegations of mismanagement.

Reports suggest the rift stems from tensions between the current state administration and the project's origins under former Governor Godwin Obaseki, who championed MOWAA as a legacy cultural initiative.

MOWAA, which positions itself as a premier institution for West African art and heritage, highlighted that the institute's construction was largely donor-funded.

Generous contributions came from the German Government, the MOWAA board of directors, leading international foundations, Nigerian corporates, and private individuals, working in partnership with the Edo State Government.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and corporate governance, thanking donors for their support "during this difficult time."

It expressed willingness to address all questions raised by the state government, underscoring the project's potential to "boost the economy, enhance livelihoods and create jobs for many in Edo State."

In a related development, President Bola Tinubu has reportedly intervened to mediate the escalating dispute, aiming to preserve ongoing programs at the MOWAA Institute, which serves as a hub for scientific research, conservation, and education.

As investigations continue, MOWAA urged constructive dialogue, warning that politicizing the institute risks undermining its role in elevating Nigeria's global cultural footprint.

Edo State officials have yet to respond to the latest clarification.