Police Halt Unapproved Egungun Festival In Oregun, Arrest 12 Over Threats To Public Order

The Lagos State Police Command has halted plans for an unapproved Egungun festival in the Oregun area and arrested twelve suspects linked to posters and social media publications warning residents against free movement.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, the suspects—allegedly operating under the name “Oje Parapo of Oregun”—were apprehended for distributing handbills that sought to restrict citizens’ movement and freedom, actions described as capable of inciting fear and disturbing public peace.

Following the arrests, CP Jimoh ordered the immediate suspension of the festival, originally scheduled for November 27 and 28, citing potential threats to public safety. “No group should take the law into their hands or restrict the movement of any Lagosian at any time,” the statement warned, reaffirming the police’s commitment to protecting the rights and safety of residents.

The Command said intelligence reports indicated that the publications had already generated tension in Oregun and surrounding areas, prompting urgent intervention to prevent unrest.

A similar case was recorded on November 23 in Mafoluku, Oshodi, where police from the Makinde Division arrested twelve suspects for distributing similar movement restriction notices.

Reiterating the ban, CP Jimoh warned the “Oje Parapo” group against any attempt to proceed with the festival, stressing that security for such an event could not be guaranteed. He condemned the panic caused among residents and vowed that anyone found disrupting public peace would face prosecution.

The Command urged Lagosians to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring sustained police presence and protection of life and property across the state.