Police halt Egungun festival in Lagos community over security concerns

The Lagos State Police Command has stopped an ongoing Egungun festival in a local community following rising security concerns and fears of possible clashes. The intervention came after intelligence reports suggested that the annual masquerade celebration could escalate into violence, particularly between rival youth groups.

Residents said preparations for the festival had been ongoing for weeks, with traditional leaders insisting on holding the event despite growing tension in the area. However, police officers were deployed on Tuesday morning to disperse crowds and prevent further activities linked to the festival.

A senior police official said the decision was taken to “prevent a breakdown of law and order,” noting that the command had earlier engaged community leaders on the need to postpone the event until adequate security measures were put in place. “We cannot allow any cultural celebration to jeopardize the safety of residents,” the officer added.

The Egungun festival, an important Yoruba cultural tradition celebrated with colourful costumes, drumming and ritual performances, often draws large crowds. But in recent years, some celebrations have been marred by street fights, gang-related clashes and disruptions to public peace.

Community leaders have expressed mixed reactions,some supporting the police action as necessary to protect residents, while others insist the festival could have proceeded peacefully with proper coordination.

The police command says it is open to further discussions with traditional institutions to reschedule the event under safer conditions. Officers will remain on patrol in the area to maintain calm and prevent any attempt to restart the festival without authorization.