Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja
As preparations gather momentum for the annual Egungun Festival in Ibadanland, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has issued a strong warning to masquerades and their followers, urging them to maintain peace and avoid any acts capable of disrupting public order.
The revered monarch made the appeal in a statement released through his media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko, ahead of the commencement of the cultural celebration. According to the Olubadan, the Egungun Festival is a cherished tradition that should promote unity, cultural pride, and peaceful coexistence among residents rather than become an avenue for violence.
The festival, which begins on Monday, is expected to attract masquerades from various compounds across Ibadanland. As is customary, participants will entertain spectators with colorful displays, traditional drumbeats, dances, and other cultural activities in different parts of the city.
However, Oba Ladoja emphasized that the celebration must not be used as a platform for intimidation, rivalry, or settling personal disputes.
“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,” the statement noted.
The monarch reminded participants that the festival represents more than entertainment. According to him, it serves as an important cultural event that connects the people of Ibadan to their heritage and offers an opportunity to celebrate their history and identity.
“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,” he stated.
The warning comes against the backdrop of incidents recorded in previous years, where clashes involving rival masquerade groups reportedly disrupted celebrations and raised security concerns among residents.
By speaking out ahead of the festivities, the Olubadan hopes to preserve the true essence of the Egungun Festival while ensuring the safety of all participants and spectators.
As Ibadan prepares for another edition of the cultural celebration, residents are being encouraged to embrace the spirit of peace, respect, and unity that the festival is meant to promote.
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