As Ibadan prepares for the commencement of this year’s Egungun festival, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, has appealed to masquerades and their followers to uphold peace and avoid acts that could harm or intimidate residents.
The monarch made this call in a statement released on Sunday through his Chief Press Secretary, Solomon Ayoade.
The annual Egungun festival is scheduled to begin on Monday, June 23, with various traditional activities expected to unfold across the city.
In his message, the Olubadan warned against any form of religious intolerance, urging the masqueraders and their supporters to respect the rights of adherents of other faiths during the celebration.
He emphasized the importance of discipline and orderliness among participants, noting that violence or disruptions of public peace would not be tolerated.
“Make this year’s Egungun Festival peaceful, entertaining and attractive which will further enhance the promotion and preservation of Ibadanland’s cultural heritage and will boost religious harmony and economic upliftment of not only Ibadan city but Yorubaland as a whole,” the monarch stated.
He further urged collaboration among traditional title holders, cultural custodians, law enforcement agencies, and residents to ensure a hitch-free celebration.
“I call on all stakeholders which includes Ibadan traditional title holders, the traditional worshipers, the law enforcement agents and the residents of Ibadanland to ensure the success of the 2025 Egungun Festival in Ibadanland,” he said.
The Olubadan also issued a stern warning against any actions that could threaten the city’s peace.
“Let me state categorically that any violation of the peaceful co-existence in Ibadan will attract serious sanctions on the part of Egungun Masquerades, their followers and residents as well irrespective of the cultural and religious differences,” he declared.
With anticipation building, the Olubadan’s message serves as a reminder of the need for unity and respect during one of the city’s most celebrated cultural events.
