The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State Command, Moshood Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered the suspension of the Egungun festival being planned in Oregun Community, saying that it is likely to lead to disturbance of public peace, safety, and order in the state.
The Command also arrested 12 suspects in connection with the circulation of handbill and poster information on social media which was attributed to “Oje Parapo of Oregun.”
Thenewbearer reports that in the publication, reportedly ordered and signed by the Olu of Oregun, HRM Oba (Dr) Olusesan Olukunmi Akingbola Ikudoro 1, the Egungun festival would hold in the night of November 27 till early hours of November 28.
Residents who are indigenes and non-indigenes were warned to comply with the directive by staying indoors from 10p.m. till 4a.m., and also have lights switched off in their residences.
This, according to information on the leaflets posted on social media, would enable the Egungun worshippers to perform traditional rites and offer sacrifices at midnight.
The announcement, which claimed that the Nigeria Police Force would be stationed at strategic places for security purpose, warned of immediate consequences for those who act against the notice.
However, the Lagos Command said that it would amount to hindering humans’ freedom of movement, expression and dignity.
In a statement by its spokeswoman, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command said it would not tolerate lawlessness in any part of the state,
The PPRO stated: “This restriction suffices to make it clear that no group should take laws into their hands and prevent other Nigerians from movement around and throughout the state at will at any time.
“The Lagos State Police Command will continue to firmly protect the fundamental human rights of everyone in the state.
“The Command further warns anyone planning unauthorised gatherings or activities that are capable of threatening public peace and safety to desist forthwith from such plans.”
She spoke further: “With regard to the publication of the Oregun traditional Egungun festival, scheduled as seen in the handbills and posters for 27th and 28th November, 2025, the Lagos State Police Command has assessed the level of fear and apprehension already generated among residents because of the publication of restrictions against the fundamental freedoms and rights of the people of the state, and has hereby declared that the event must not hold.
“This is done to ensure public safety, law and order, and protection of lives and property of the people of the state.
“No festival that can risk destabilising the peace or heighten tension in the state will be permitted under any circumstances.”
The police spokeswoman made reference to similar circumstances at Mafoluku, Oshodi, within the Makinde Police Division, on which the Command promptly acted on Sunday, November 23, after publications akin to that of Oregun were circulated to instigate disturbance of public order, safety, and other acts capable of disrupting public peace and protection of lives and property.
This, she disclosed, led to the arrest of 12 suspects who are currently being investigation.
SP Adebisi said that the suspects would be prosecuted on completion of investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh, categorically wishes to reaffirm that the Oje Parapo of Oregun should desist forthwith from holding the Egungun Festival, as the security for the festival can no longer be guaranteed.
“Furthermore, the stress and fear already instilled in residents are unacceptable.
“He warns that the full weight of the law will be applied to anyone or group that attempts to undermine the peace, safety, or stability of Lagos State.
“The general public throughout the State is therefore advised to go about their lawful duties, obligations, and other responsibilities without any fear or apprehension.
“Members of the public are advised to report any suspicious activities to the Police through any of our emergency numbers 08063299264, 09053872208, 07061019374, 08065154338,” she concluded.
