ARAN laments over FG’s N1.5bn debt to association, Urges Tinubu’s intervention

The Artifacts Rescuers Association of Nigeria, (ARAN) has said its long outstanding payment with the federal government to the tune of N1.5 Billion is a case of forgotten Ambassadors, betrayal of trust and neglect.

ARAN is an association of accredited Vendors to National Commission for Museums and Monuments, with the responsibility to rescue Nigeria’s artifacts from illicit dealers and smugglers, both locally and internationally, with the aim of preserving Nigeria Cultural Heritage.

According to the association, the government has failed to settle its long outstanding debts, amounting to ₦1.5 billion, leaving the rescuers in a precarious financial situation, pointing that; “This neglect has jeopardized the association’s operations, raising questions about Government’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.”

The immediate past President of the Association, George Agbo at a press conference in Abuja, Friday described the situation as a case of” forgotten Ambassadors, a tale of neglect and betrayal,” saying that the “Government has blatantly, disregarded their plight.

” The association, instrumental in rescuing and preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage, is owed for over 3,000 artifacts, rescued and returned to the Government, since 2010.

“We risked our lives to rescue these precious artifacts from illicit dealers and smugglers. We expected our compensation to be paid immediately after these artifacts were assessed and valued. Instead, we are left high and dry. Some, amongst us, traveled overseas, and were priviledged to rescue these National pertrimonies with hard currencies.

“Some also borrowed funds from financial institutions to render this onerous and ambassadorial service to our fatherland without any form of financial support or upfront payments. We have lost eight of our members to preventable illnesses due to lack of money to asess good medical attention, and these are people that have dependents.

“The Government’s apathy towards the rescuers’ plight is a stark reminder of the neglect and disregard that cultural preservation efforts often face. Despite repeated attempts to engage with Government officials by the association, has been met with silence and indifference.”

However, Agbo expressed hope that the current Director General of the National Commission for Museum and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway, might bring relief to the association.

“We are pinning our hopes on the efforts being made by the current DG, making sure we are paid.

“As the National commission for Museums and Monuments, and Nigerians plans to celebrate yet, another world Museums day on the 18th of May, Saturday, there are few questions, begging for answers: What is the value of cultural heritage if those who risk everything to preserve it are left unattended, accordingly, how can the Government justify its inaction in the face of such dedication and service,” he queried.

He added:” As the association continues to wait for its legitimate payment, the fate of Nigeria’s cultural heritage hangs in the balance. Will the Government, finally take notice and act, or will the rescuers be left to fight for their rights and the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural treasures?

“The people demand answers. The rescuers deserve justice. Nigeria’s cultural heritage is worth more than empty promises and broken dreams,” he said.