One day to end, Egungun festival canceled in Ogbomoso, after one shot dead

Image caption: Photo used for illustration only

One day to end, Egungun festival canceled in Ogbomoso, after one shot dead

Yinka ADETUNJI

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The annual Egungun Festival has been cancelled in Ogbomoso, Oyo state, after one person was reportedly shot dead during a fracas at Aguodo area.

Aftermath the killing, the Soun of Ogbomosoland Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, in an urgent press statement signed by Mr. Toyin Ajamu, the Palace Secretary, directed that the festival, which is to end tomorrow Sunday, be cancelled, urging the law enforcement agents to apprehend anyone found still celebrating the festival or fomenting trouble.

It is recalled that the festival began Wednesday, 8th July, with no tragic occurrences so far until this evening.

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“However, following a series of attacks by some hoodlums which may lead to unforeseen circumstances, and on the directives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, Soun of Ogbomosoland, the 2026 Egungun Festival is hereby cancelled with immediate effect,” the statement read in part.

“Henceforth, anyone caught celebrating further or attempting to cause any form of trouble should be dealt with in accordance with the law.

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“We count on your maximum cooperation to ensure strict compliance and maintenance of peace and order.”

Prior the commencement of the festival series of meetings were held with the monarch urging the celebration should unfold without the usual violence associated with it in recent years.

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