Commissioner warns festival participants against disrupting public peace, says offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
The Oyo State Government has warned individuals and groups 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, issued the warning in a statement, stressing that the government will not tolerate any conduct that threatens public safety or undermines the peaceful celebration of the cultural festival.
According to him, reports indicate that some individuals have been using the festival as an excuse to block roads and hinder the free movement of residents and motorists across the city.
Olatubosun noted that while citizens have the right to celebrate their cultural and religious heritage, such activities must be conducted within the confines of the law and without infringing on the rights of others.
He also reiterated the government’s ban on the possession, display, or use of weapons and other dangerous objects during the festival, warning that anyone found violating the directive would be arrested and prosecuted.
The commissioner urged all participants and stakeholders to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions capable of causing public nuisance or breaching the peace.
He further called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to enforce law and order throughout the festival and take decisive action against offenders to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration.