Lagos Police restrict masquerades procession to designated locations

The Lagos State Police Command has restricted all Egungun masqueraders’ festival activities to designated outing points and approved venues of celebration only.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

He said that the directive banned practitioners from engaging in public processions or street parades to safeguard lives, property, and public safety.

Mr Hundeyin said the order was to ensure that the rights of adherents and followers of other faiths and groups were not violated during the festivals.

He added that the measure would help prevent clashes between rival egungun groups, as recently reported in parts of the state.

 The restriction also sought to avert damage to private and public property, following incidents linked to masqueraders outings in recent days.

He stated, “Egungun masqueraders, practitioners and their supporters are to strictly comply with these restrictions.’’ 

The spokesperson urged masqueraders to notify the commissioner of police and apply for security cover before embarking on any outings with followers.

 He cautioned that the command would enforce the law against any masquerader or follower who breaches public order, violates rights, or disrupts peace.

Mr Hundeyin said, “The command urges egungun masqueraders, adherents and supporters to cooperate with the police, comply with the law, and help sustain peace across Lagos.”