The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, has cautioned masquerades and their followers against oppressing or intimidating innocent citizens, particularly adherents of other religions, during the upcoming Egungun festival.
The Olubadan emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence in Ibadan, stating that any act of violence or violation of others’ rights will 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,” he said.
The festival, scheduled to take off on June 23, requires the cooperation of all stakeholders, including traditional title holders, traditional worshipers, law enforcement agents, and residents, to ensure its success.
The Olubadan urged masquerades, their guardians, and followers to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.
“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,” the Olubadan warned.
He called on all stakeholders to work together to make the festival a success.