[ICYMI] Traditional festival: Lagos neighborhood issues a warning to women to stay inside on May 16

The traditional “Oro” festival, which takes place every year in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has been rescheduled for May 16, 2024, both during the day and at night.

This was revealed in a letter that the Ayangburen Palace released and that Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, signed. PUNCH Online was able to view a copy of the letter on Sunday.

The medical director of the Ikorodu General Hospital was the recipient of the letter, which was dated April 16, 2024.

The letter said, “This is to notify you of the above festival, which is slated for Thursday, May 16, 2024,” and was headed “Notification of Magbo (Oro) Festival 2024.”

“According to tradition, all females are advised to remain in their respective homes and avoid moving around the town during the Oro festival.

“Please note that your organisation is affected by falling within the Oro traditional jurisdictions. You are hereby advised to adhere to the traditions of the town.”

In the Yoruba tradition, the Oro festival is one of the most important ones.

Male descendants celebrate it, and it’s typically marked by a midday parade and, depending on the town, high-pitched noises in specific locations.

It is thought that women are not allowed to participate in the festival’s rituals.

When our correspondent contacted on Sunday to inquire about their response, Gbenga Omotosho, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, and SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, did not answer.

Additionally, they have not replied to any texts that have been sent to them.

Additionally unsuccessful were attempts to contact the Ikorodu Palace for further explanation on the subject; no one answered the calls.