I Did Not Demolish A Hospital To Build A Museum – Godwin Obaseki

The Governor of Edo State Godwin Obaseki, has addressed allegations claiming his administration demolished the Central Hospital in Benin City for the construction of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

Obaseki stated that there is no truth to the claim, adding that the hospital was demolished to build a better healthcare facility.

He disclosed this at the official unveiling and preview of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Institute and Campus in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Naija News reports that the governor had earlier stated that he had no regrets about demolishing the Central Hospital.

Shedding more light on his statement, he said it was necessary to address the criticism that followed the hospital’s demolition.

“I am sure you heard of the criticism that we brought down a hospital and built a museum. But in two days, we are going to be commissioning one of the biggest hospitals in South-South Nigeria, here in Benin City.

“We didn’t pull down a hospital for a museum; instead, we built a museum and are building a better hospital,” he said.

While addressing the diplomatic community, representatives of international museums, and other stakeholders at the program, Obaseki highlighted the project’s employment and investment potential for the state, noting that it would be a key driver of tourism and economic growth.

He said that when he assumed office as the governor of the state eight years ago, he set out a plan that was challenging and uncertain.

The governor added that his administration’s plans focused on regenerating, restoring, and reforming the state, and that the government did what every responsible government should do.