The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has issued strict guidelines ahead of the annual Oloolu Festival, warning residents against taking photographs, filming or recording the revered Oloolu masquerade.
The monarch also reiterated that, in line with the customs and traditions of Ibadanland, women are forbidden from seeing the sacred masquerade.
The directives were contained in a statement released on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Chief Solomon Ayoade.
According to the statement, the annual Oloolu Festival will commence on Monday, with the traditional ruler urging residents and visitors to strictly observe the rules governing the celebration.
Described as the most prominent masquerade in Ibadan’s history, the Oloolu masquerade remains a sacred cultural symbol whose traditions must be respected, the monarch said.
Oba Ladoja further appealed to security agencies to ensure law and order throughout the festival and prevent any breach of the peace.
He also called on Oloolu masquerade custodians, other Egungun leaders, their followers, adherents of other religions and members of the public to conduct themselves peacefully during the festivities.
The statement read in part: “His Imperial Majesty warned women not to see Oloolu as it is a taboo according to the tradition of Ibadanland. Photographs and videos of the masquerade should not be taken.
“Kabiyesi warned Oloolu Masquerade, other Egungun leaders and their followers, other religious adherents as well as members of the public to give peace a chance and desist from any activity capable of causing crisis or a breakdown of law and order during the festival activities.”