The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji on Sunday insisted that the Egungun (Masquerades) festival is not a license for hoodlums to unleash terror and violence on the society.
Oba Adetunji made this declaration via a statement made available by Adeola Oloko, his Personal Assistant/Director of Media and Publicity.
The monarch issued this warning ahead of this year’s Egungun (Masquerades) festival billed to begin tomorrow (Monday).
He used the occasion to warn masquerades and their followers against any act that may cause breach of the peace in the ancient city.
The monarch, in the statement, called for peaceful celebration of the festival among diverse people of the ancient town.
He said, “the egungun festival is a month long celebration of the rich custom and tradition of the people. “The festival is not a license for hoodlums to unleash terror and violence on the society.”
The Olubadan, who regretted pockets of violence in the previous year’s festivities, warned that there would be zero-tolerance for violence this year.
He called on the people to join hands with the law enforcement agents in maintaining peace, stressing that security breach would be prosecuted.
“The masqueraders and their followers are expected to follow the routes already lined up for them by the law enforcement agents, any masquerader who goes against the route lined up for him risks the wrath of the law.
“The use of dangerous weapons such as guns, daggers, swords, bottles and machetes etc etc is outlawed. He warned that he would not seek the bail of any one who goes against the law of the land in the name of egungun celebration.
“This year, only the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland would be entertained by the masqueraders. On Monday, the Olubadan would be on hand to receive the masqueraders at the popoyemoja, Ibadan palace where they are expected to offer prayers and receive gifts.
“The festival is expected to be rounded up in July,” the statement read.
