The annual traditional ‘Oro’ festival, a significant event in Ikorodu, Lagos State, is scheduled for May 16, 2024, during both daytime and nighttime, as per a letter issued by the Ayangburen Palace and signed by Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu.
In the letter dated April 16, 2024, addressed to the Medical Director of the Ikorodu General Hospital, titled ‘Notification of Magbo (Oro) Festival 2024,’ it states, “This is to notify you of the above festival, which is slated for Thursday, May 16, 2024.
“As per tradition, all females are advised to remain in their respective homes and avoid moving around the town during the Oro festival.
“Please note that your organization falls within the Oro traditional jurisdictions. You are hereby advised to adhere to the traditions of the town.”
The Oro festival, deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition, is celebrated by male descendants and typically involves a daytime procession and high-pitched sounds resonating across the community.
It’s customary that females refrain from being present during the ritual rites of the festival.
Despite attempts to reach out for clarification, neither the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, nor the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, responded to calls or messages from our correspondent.
Efforts to obtain further information from the Ikorodu Palace were unsuccessful as calls went unanswered.
