The Lagos State Police Command has placed restrictions on this year’s Egungun festival, limiting all activities to approved outing points and designated celebration venues.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police said the directive is aimed at protecting lives and property while ensuring the rights of other religious and cultural groups are respected.
“The Lagos State Police Command hereby announces the restriction of all Egungun masquerade festival activities to designated masquerade outing points and venues of celebrations only. This directive prohibits practitioners from engaging in public processions or street marching to ensure safety, protection of lives and properties, and also guarantees that the rights of other religious groups are not infringed upon,” the statement read.
The move comes in response to recent reports of disturbances, property damage, and violent clashes between rival Egungun groups in parts of Lagos.
“To guarantee public safety and prevent further clashes between rival Egungun groups as currently being witnessed, and prevent damage to private and public properties, Egungun masquerades, practitioners, and supporters are to strictly abide by these restrictions,” the Command said.
The police further directed organisers to notify the Commissioner of Police and apply for security coverage before bringing out masquerades during the festival.
Issuing a stern warning, the Command vowed to enforce the law against any group or individual who flouts the order.
“The Command will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law on any Egungun masquerade or their followers found disturbing public order, violating fundamental human rights, or engaging in conduct likely to cause a breach of peace anywhere in Lagos State,” the statement added.
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