The Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has ordered the immediate cancellation of the 2026 Egungun Festival following a series of violent attacks linked to the celebration, Eclat Media Reports.
The directive was conveyed in an official letter issued by the Palace Secretary, Mr. Toyin Ajamu, and addressed to law enforcement agencies.According to the statement, the festival, which began on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, and was scheduled to end on Sunday, July 19, 2026, was suspended after repeated attacks by hoodlums raised serious security concerns and the possibility of further violence.
The palace directed all security agencies to enforce the cancellation and warned that anyone found celebrating the festival or attempting to cause any disturbance should be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The palace also called on law enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with the directive and maintain peace and order across Ogbomosoland.
The announcement comes after reports of clashes in parts of Ogbomoso during the festival, which resulted in casualties and heightened tension within the community.
Official Letter
FOR THE ATTENTION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENTS
Dear Sir,
CANCELLATION OF THE 2026 EGUNGUN FESTIVAL IN OGBOMOSOLAND
You will recall that the 2026 Egungun Festival in Ogbomosoland commenced on Wednesday, 8th July, 2026 and was scheduled to end on Sunday, 19th July, 2026.However, following a series of attacks by some hoodlums which may lead to unforeseen circumstances, and on the directives of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, Soun of Ogbomosoland, the 2026 Egungun Festival is hereby cancelled with immediate effect.
Henceforth, anyone caught celebrating further or attempting to cause any form of trouble should be dealt with in accordance with the law.
We count on your maximum cooperation to ensure strict compliance and maintenance of peace and order.
Signed
Mr. Toyin Ajamu
Palace Secretary, Ogbomoso Palace
For: His Imperial Majesty
Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III
Soun of Ogbomosoland
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