Lagos Police Ban Street Processions During Egungun Festival

The Lagos State Police Command has restricted activities of the ongoing Egungun festival to designated outing points and approved celebration venues, banning street processions across the state.

Police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, announced the directive in a statement on Sunday, explaining that the move was to protect lives and property while respecting the rights of other religious and cultural groups.

“The command hereby announces the restriction of all Egungun masquerade festival activities to designated outing points and venues only. This prohibits public processions or street marching to ensure safety, prevent disturbances, and protect the rights of other faith groups,” the statement read.

The command said the decision followed reports of disturbances, property damage, and clashes between rival Egungun groups in some parts of Lagos.

“To guarantee public safety and prevent further clashes, masquerades, practitioners, and supporters must strictly comply with these restrictions,” Hundeyin added, noting that groups must notify the Commissioner of Police and apply for security before any outing.