The traditional ruler of Ikate-Elegushi kingdom of Lagos State, Oba Saheed Ademola, on Wednesday, said the Oro festival in his community would not affect Saturday’s governorship and House of Assembly elections.
The monarch made the clarifications in a text message sent to The PUNCH.
The clarification followed media reports that the monarch fixed the traditional rites on election day.
However, speaking with our correspondent through his media aide, Temitope Oyefeso, the monarch said, “The restriction of movement for the Oro rites in Ikate-Elegushi kingdom, Eti-Osa, is from Wednesday to Friday, election day is not included.
The restriction is from 12 midnight to 5am on each day, while residents are free to move before and after this time. This clarification is necessary for those peddling falsehood as to the motive for the rites. The peace and progress of our land is the responsibility of all of us and we must be alive to this responsibility.”
Oro festival is a traditional event celebrated by towns and settlements of Yoruba origin. It is a traditional rite that is patriarchal in nature, as participation is only open to adult males, while females, children and non-initiates are barred.
During the festival Oro, females, children and non-initiates are warned to stay indoors.