The Lagos State Police Command has placed restrictions on this year’s Egungun masqueraders’ festival, limiting all activities to designated outing points and approved venues of celebration.
The announcement was made in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on Sunday in Lagos. According to him, the directive prohibits practitioners from staging public processions or street parades to safeguard lives, property, and public safety.
Hundeyin explained that the order was introduced to protect the rights of adherents of other faiths and groups during the festival season. He added that the restriction was also aimed at preventing clashes between rival Egungun groups, incidents of which have been reported in different parts of the state in recent weeks.
The police command further noted that the measure would help avert damage to both public and private property, citing recent disturbances linked to masquerader outings.
“Egungun masqueraders, practitioners and their supporters are to comply with these restrictions strictly,” Hundeyin said. He advised that masqueraders notify the commissioner of police and apply for security cover before embarking on any outings with their followers.
He also cautioned that the command would not hesitate to enforce the law against any masquerader or supporter who disturbs public peace, violates rights, or disrupts order.
Hundeyin urged adherents to cooperate with the police, obey the law, and contribute to sustaining peace across Lagos.
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