Egungun festival does not give license to terrorize citizens, Olubadan warns masquerades and followers

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, has stated that the annual Egungun (masquerade) festival does not grant permission for any form of violence in the ancient city.

Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, issued this statement, which was signed by his media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko.

The statement was provided to DAILY POST on Sunday in Ibadan, the state capital.

DAILY POST reports that the yearly Egungun festival is scheduled to begin tomorrow (Monday).

Our correspondent notes that masquerades from various compounds across Ibadanland are expected to appear in strategic locations throughout the city starting tomorrow.

In the statement, Ladoja warned masquerades and their handlers to avoid all forms of violence during and after the festival.

The traditional ruler explained that the festival’s purpose is to promote peace and harmony within the ancient city.

He cautioned that the festival should not serve as a platform for settling old scores, engaging in supremacy contests, or carrying out retaliatory attacks between masquerades and their opponents.

“Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja has tasked masquerades and their followers to eschew violence during and after the festival, as violent conduct of any kind is punishable under the law,” he said.

“It is a time to reflect on our history as a people, where we are coming from and where we are right now. It is worth celebrating with drumbeats, dance and merriment.”