The palace of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, has announced an 11-hour curfew across Ilesa as part of traditional rites intended to ward off the spirit of sudden deaths and killings in Ijesaland.
According to a public announcement issued by the palace, the restriction will take effect from 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, until 6:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026.
The palace explained that the temporary curfew forms part of customary observances aimed at seeking peace, protection, and the well-being of the people of Ijesaland.
Residents and visitors have been directed to remain indoors throughout the period and comply fully with the stay-at-home order in the interest of maintaining peace and ensuring the successful conduct of the traditional exercise.
The announcement reads: “A curfew has been imposed in Ilesa from 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, to 6 a.m. on August 7, 2026, for a traditional rite to ward off the spirit of sudden deaths and killings in Ijesaland.
“Members of the public are requested to strictly adhere to the stay-at-home directives for the sake of peace in Ijesaland.”
The palace did not provide further details on the traditional rites but appealed to residents to cooperate fully by observing the curfew until it is officially lifted on Friday morning.
