Traditional worshippers urged to maintain peace as Egungun celebrations commence across Ibadanland with prayers for unity, security and prosperity.
The annual Egungun Festival in Ibadanland will officially commence on Sunday, June 21, 2026, with traditional worshippers and residents set to participate in one of the city’s most celebrated cultural events.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, the Egungun masquerades will pay homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo on Monday, June 22.
The festival, beyond its cultural and entertainment significance, will feature visits to strategic locations across Ibadanland where prayers will be offered for peace, security, economic growth, food sufficiency and the continued development of the ancient city.
As part of the programme, the masquerades will visit the palaces of key Ibadan traditional leaders, including Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola, Eddy Oyewole, Kolawole Adegbola and Kolawole Abiodun-Daisi between June 24 and July 1.
Festival organisers announced that there will be no Egungun rally on the opening day, directing all masquerades to celebrate within their compounds.
The Olubadan Palace also appealed to worshippers and residents to maintain peace throughout the celebration, assuring that security agencies will be on ground to ensure law and order during the festival period.