The Complex Ownership of Benin Bronzes.

Nigeria's outgoing president has transferred ownership of the Benin Bronzes, looted by British soldiers in 1897, to a descendant of the ruler of the ancient kingdom of Benin, causing confusion and uncertainty in restitution efforts. The plan to return the bronzes to Nigeria and build a new museum to house them has been put on hold, and some museums negotiating returns of looted items to Nigeria are anxious about the passing of the treasures into private hands. The saga of the bronzes predates Nigeria, and opinion is divided over who should receive them.