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From Oluseye Ojo, Ibadan
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, has suspended the annual Egungun (masquerades) festival in Ibadan due to escalating violence, looting and chaos.
The decision came after numerous reports of arson, looting, and general mayhem brought about by unidentified hoodlums taking advantage of the festival to perpetrate criminal activities.
Announcing the suspension in a press release, the monarch expressed his deep disappointment and called the developments an affront to the palace.
Oba Balogun had previously warned against turning the festival into an avenue for havoc. However, despite assurance from the masquerades’ leaders that nothing untoward would happen, the reports proved otherwise.
“I warned seriously against what is happening when the festival was to commence, and the assurances I got then were at variance with the reality we are facing now. No responsible leader would idle by when their subjects are living in fear and agony due to the actions of a few misguided individuals,” Oba Balogun stated.
Daily Sun gathered that the recent incident was not the first time violence had marred the festival in the city. Just last Wednesday, the monarch condemned similar acts of violence reported in the Alafara Olubadan area. Concerned about the safety of his people, Oba Balogun summoned all the leaders of masquerades, known as Alaagbaa, to an emergency meeting at the ancient Aliiwo Palace.
While the duration of the festival’s suspension remains uncertain, it will be determined by the outcome of a cucial meeting that will be held in the afternoon of Monday July 17, 2023.
The Olubadan emphasised that he would not tolerate a return to the past when the festival was associated with terror and attacks on targeted individuals.
“I call on the security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure that no culprit goes unpunished. Anyone who dares to ignore the suspension order will be treated as a criminal. My priority is peace, and I have zero tolerance for anything that disrupts peace and tranquility in my kingdom,” His Imperial Majesty asserted.
