The Lagos State Police Command has stopped a planned Egungun festival in the Oregun area of the state, declaring the event illegal and a threat to public peace. Twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with handbills, posters and social media publications allegedly issued by a group identified as Oje Parapo of Oregun.
The Command, in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the organisers circulated materials that attempted to restrict the movement and rights of residents ahead of the festival scheduled for November 27 and 28.
Adebisi said the content of the handbills and online publications brazenly infringed on the fundamental freedoms of Lagos residents.
“The publication from this group was warning and restricting the general public from freedom of movement, expression and dignity to human persons,” the statement read.
The police said such actions amounted to attempting to take the law into private hands, stressing that no individual or group had the authority to impose movement restrictions on the public.
Adebisi noted that the Command had already assessed the level of fear generated among residents by the publications and concluded that the festival must not hold.
“The event is hereby declared prohibited to prevent tension and safeguard public order. No festival that threatens peace in the state will be permitted,” the Command stated.
The police also warned against any unauthorised gatherings or traditional events capable of disrupting security or instigating violence.
The statement referenced a similar incident in Mafoluku, Oshodi, where the Command halted another planned event following circulation of materials aimed at disturbing public order. Twelve suspects were also arrested in that operation and are currently undergoing investigation.
The Lagos Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of residents and maintaining law and order, insisting that public safety would not be compromised under any guise.
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