Egungun Festival not licence for violence, Olubadan warns

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By Adeola Badru

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The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, has warned masquerades and their followers against engaging in any form of violence during and after this year’s Egungun Festival, stressing that anyone found disrupting public peace will face the full weight of the law.

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The monarch issued the warning ahead of the commencement of the annual festival in Ibadan on Monday.

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In a statement signed by his Chief Spokesman and Media Aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, Oba Ladoja described the Egungun Festival as a cherished cultural tradition that has been celebrated by the people of Ibadan for generations.

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According to him, the festival is an important platform for preserving and celebrating the customs, traditions, and heritage of the people.

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“The festival is dedicated to celebrating our lore, customs and traditions. It is a moment to showcase the evolution of our society, social cohesion, family unity and solidarity through the offering of sacrifices,” the monarch said.

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“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 drum beats, dance and merriment.”

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However, the Olubadan cautioned that the cultural celebration must not be turned into an avenue for violence, revenge attacks, or supremacy battles among rival groups.

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He stated that the festival is neither an opportunity to settle old scores nor a platform for retaliatory attacks, warning that any violent conduct remains a criminal offence punishable under the law.

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To ensure a peaceful celebration, Oba Ladoja said the palace, in collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders, had put measures in place to maintain law and order throughout the festival period.

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He also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies in protecting lives and property and ensuring a hitch-free event.

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The monarch further directed masquerades and their followers to strictly adhere to routes, locations, and timelines approved by security authorities, warning against actions capable of endangering public safety or disrupting the festival.

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Oba Ladoja reiterated that while the Egungun Festival remains a significant cultural event, participants must conduct themselves responsibly and within the confines of the law to preserve its sanctity and maintain public peace.

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