The Oyo State Government and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, have cautioned masquerades, their followers and residents against engaging in acts of violence, thuggery and other unlawful activities during the 2026 Egungun Festival in Ibadan.
The dual warnings from the state government and the Olubadan’s Palace come amid efforts to preserve the cultural essence of the Egungun Festival while preventing incidents that have occasionally marred past celebrations in parts of the state.
The warnings becomes imperative as the annual cultural festival commenced on Monday across various parts of Ibadanland, with authorities emphasizing the need for a peaceful and orderly celebration.
In their separate statements issued by both the Commissioner for Information; Prince Dotun Oyelade and the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan; Chief Adeola Oloko, the Olubadan described the Egungun Festival as a cherished cultural heritage that has been celebrated by the people of Ibadan from time immemorial.
They stressed that the 2026 edition of the festival should not be turned into an avenue for violence or the settlement of personal disputes.
The Oyo State Government warned individuals and groups against obstructing roads, disrupting public movement or engaging in any activity capable of threatening public order during the celebration.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun said the state government had received reports of some persons exploiting the festival to block roads and hinder the free movement of residents and motorists.
He described such acts as unlawful and unacceptable, noting that cultural and religious celebrations must be conducted responsibly and with due regard for the rights of other citizens.
“While citizens have the right to observe their cultural and religious festivals, such celebrations must not infringe on the rights of others or constitute a public nuisance,” Olatubosun said.
The commissioner also warned against the possession, display or use of weapons and other dangerous objects during the festival, stressing that anyone found engaging in acts capable of endangering public safety would face arrest and prosecution.
He called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to enforce law and order throughout the festival and ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, Olatubosun stated that the government would not tolerate violence, thuggery, vendetta or any conduct capable of disrupting public peace.
He nevertheless wished Egungun worshippers a successful and peaceful celebration, urging all stakeholders to uphold the cultural significance of the festival while respecting the rule of law.
Similarly, the Olubadan said the festival is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the customs, traditions and historical values of the people, while promoting social cohesion, family unity and communal solidarity through traditional rites and sacrifices.
“The festival is a moment to reflect on our history as a people, where we are coming from and where we are today. It is a celebration worthy of drumbeats, dancing and merriment,” the royal father stated.
Oba Ladoja, however, warned that the annual celebration should not be used for supremacy contests, retaliatory attacks or the settling of old scores among masquerades, their adherents or rival groups.
He reminded participants that violent conduct remains punishable under the law and urged masquerades and their followers to strictly comply with guidelines laid down by security agencies regarding approved routes, locations and operating hours.
The first-class monarch further disclosed that adequate arrangements had been put in place by the palace to ensure a hitch-free celebration and called on residents to cooperate with security operatives in maintaining peace throughout the festival period.