The Oyo State Government has issued a stern warning against road obstruction, thuggery and other activities capable of disrupting public peace during the 2026 Egungun Festival in Ibadan.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatubosun, said the government would not tolerate any conduct that could threaten public safety or hinder the movement of residents and motorists during the annual cultural celebration.
In a statement released on Monday in Ibadan, Olatubosun expressed concern over reports that some individuals were exploiting the festival to block roads and create difficulties for road users across parts of the state capital.
He described such actions as unlawful and unacceptable, stressing that the government remained committed to ensuring law and order throughout the festival period.
According to the commissioner, while residents and worshippers have the constitutional right to observe cultural and religious festivals, such celebrations must be conducted responsibly and without infringing on the rights of others.
Olatubosun urged all participants, organisers and stakeholders involved in the Egungun Festival to ensure that their activities do not constitute a public nuisance or disrupt normal social and economic activities.
The commissioner also reiterated the state’s prohibition on the possession, display or use of weapons and other dangerous objects during the festivities.
He warned that anyone found engaging in acts capable of endangering lives and property would face immediate arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.
To guarantee compliance with the directive, Olatubosun called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforce law and order across festival venues and surrounding communities.
He stressed that security agencies must take appropriate action against individuals or groups whose actions threaten public peace and safety.
While extending his goodwill to Egungun worshippers ahead of the celebration, the commissioner expressed optimism that the festival would be peaceful and successful.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, adding that violence, thuggery, vendetta and any form of disorderly conduct would not be tolerated during the cultural event.
The Egungun Festival is one of the prominent traditional celebrations in Yorubaland, attracting worshippers, cultural enthusiasts and visitors from within and outside Oyo State.
