Lagos Police Stops Unapproved Egungun Festival in Oregun, 12 Arrested

The Lagos State Police Command has halted plans for an unapproved Egungun festival in Oregun, Ikeja, and arrested twelve suspects linked to handbills and posters that warned residents against free movement in the community.

The police said the operation followed widespread circulation of flyers and online posts, allegedly published under the name “Oje Parapo of Oregun.”

In a press statement on Tuesday, the spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the suspects were apprehended after distributing handbills that attempted to restrict people’s fundamental rights.

According to the statement, the materials were “capable of inciting fear and disturbing public order,” adding that their circulation threatened freedom of movement, expression and human dignity.

Following the development on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, ordered the immediate suspension of the festival earlier scheduled for November 27 and 28, 2025, saying the event posed a direct risk to public safety.

At a lecture parade briefing, Jimoh warned: “No group or individuals should take the law into their hands or restrict the movement of any Lagosian at any time.”

He added that anyone attempting to undermine public peace will “face the full weight of the law.”

Police said security assessments showed the planned festival created “widespread apprehension” across Oregun and surrounding areas.

The Command vowed that “no cultural event or gathering capable of heightening tension or endangering lives will be allowed to hold in Lagos.”

The statement also recalled a similar crackdown on November 23, 2025, in Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos.

Police operatives from Makinde Division moved in promptly, arresting 12 suspects after handbills with movement-ban messaging were circulated in the area.

According to police, those arrested are currently under investigation and will be prosecuted after enquiries are concluded.

Reaffirming the suspension, CP Jimoh directed the group acting as Oje Parapo to desist from any attempt to proceed with the festival, warning that security protection for such an event “could not be guaranteed.”

“The fear already created among residents is unacceptable. Anyone undermining Lagos peace will face the full weight of the law,” Jimoh said.

The Nigeria Police Force assured residents that they are free to continue their lawful activities without fear, noting that the Command remains committed to sustained protection of life and property across Lagos State.