Real reason Oregun Festival was banned by police comes to light

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Lagos State Police Command has ordered the suspension of the Oregun traditional Egungun festival scheduled for 27 and 28 November 2025, citing concerns that the event could trigger unrest, restrict citizens’ movement and threaten public peace.

In a series of statements released on Wednesday, the Command said its decision followed an assessment of the “fear and apprehension” already generated among residents after handbills and posters circulated prescribing movement restrictions during the festival.

The Command declared unequivocally that the festival “must not hold,” stressing that no cultural event or gathering would be permitted if it risked destabilising the peace or heightening tension across the state.

“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 statement read.

The Police said it remains committed to protecting the fundamental rights of residents, warning groups planning unauthorised gatherings to desist immediately.

“The Lagos State Police Command will continue to firmly protect the fundamental human rights of everyone in the State,” it added.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, reinforced the directive, stating that security agencies could no longer guarantee safety at the proposed festival.

“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 said.

The Command also referenced a similar incident in Mafoluku, Oshodi, within the Makinde Police Division, where officers acted swiftly on 23 November, 2025 after publications circulated calling for activities capable of disrupting public order, saying that 12 suspects were arrested in that case and are currently under investigation.

“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 Commissioner warned.

Residents across Lagos were urged to go about their lawful activities without fear. The Police encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity using the Command’s emergency numbers: 08063299264, 09053872208, 07061019374, and 08065154338.

The statement was signed by SP Abimbola Adebisi, Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command.