The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has cautioned masquerades and their followers against engaging in any form of violence during and after the annual Egungun Festival, which begins on Monday.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the monarch’s media aide, Chief Adeola Oloko.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Egungun Festival is a revered Yoruba cultural celebration observed across the South-West region to honour and connect with ancestral spirits.

The festival is usually marked by colourful masquerade displays, drumming, dancing and other traditional rites.
Speaking ahead of the commencement of the festival, Oba Ladoja stressed that any violent conduct would be met with appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law.

The traditional ruler warned that the festival should not be used as a platform to settle personal disputes, engage in supremacy battles, or carry out retaliatory attacks between masquerades and their perceived opponents.

According to him, the Egungun Festival is an age-old cultural and religious celebration dedicated to preserving and promoting the customs and traditions of Ibadan people.

“The Egungun festival is an annual ritual which the people have been celebrating from time immemorial, dedicated to celebrating Ibadan customs and tradition.

“It is also a moment to showcase the evolution of our society, social cohesion, family unity and solidarity through the offering of sacrifice.

“It is a time to reflect on our history as a people, so as to assess where we are coming from and where we are right now. It is worthy of celebration with drum beats, dance and merriment,” the monarch said.

Oba Ladoja further assured residents that the palace had made adequate arrangements with relevant stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration of the 2026 edition of the festival.

He called on residents to cooperate with security agencies and other law-enforcement personnel deployed for the event, stressing that maintaining peace and order was a collective responsibility.

The Olubadan also directed masquerades and their followers to strictly adhere to movement restrictions and schedules outlined by law-enforcement agencies, warning that anyone who violates the regulations would face the consequences of their actions.

The annual Egungun Festival remains one of the most significant cultural events in Ibadan, attracting participants and spectators who gather to celebrate Yoruba heritage, honour ancestors and strengthen communal bonds.