Jubilation in Benin Republic as France returns looted royal treasures

Hundreds of people lined in the streets of Benin capital, Cotonou, to mark the return of 26 royal treasures that had been looted by France colonial troops in the 19th century.

This follows an agreement between France and Benin that was finalised on Tuesday in Paris at an event attended by Presidents Patrice Talon and Emmanuel Macron.

Among the artworks which had been on display in a Parisian museum are statues from the ancient kingdom of Abomey as well as the throne of king Behanzin was looted when French soldiers ransacked a palace in 1892.

European governments are coming under increased pressure to give back what was seized during the colonial era.

This includes thousands of metal sculptures and ivory carvings that were stolen from the southern Nigeria.