Olubadan urges peaceful celebration as masquerade festival begins Monday

The Oloolu Masquerade Festival is set to commence in Ibadanland, Nigeria, with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, announcing the program and urging for a peaceful celebration. The four-day festival is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 27, 2026, with the traditional "Aisun Odun Oloolu" (festival eve).

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The Oloolu Masquerade will first pay a courtesy visit to the Olubadan at his Oke-Aremo Palace where prayers will be offered for the monarch, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, indigenes, residents and the continued peace and prosperity of Ibadanland.

Key events include the Oloolu Masquerade paying a courtesy visit to the Olubadan at his palace for prayers for the monarch and the land. The masquerade will also visit the residence of the Otun Olubadan and later call on Governor ‘Seyi Makinde at the Government House. The festival itinerary includes visits to numerous areas across Ibadan, such as Aliiwo, Yemetu, Oje Market, and Bode Market, spanning July 28 and 29.

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Congratulating the masquerade, indigenes and residents of Ibadanland for witnessing this year’s celebration, Oba Ladoja called on all stakeholders to allow peace to reign throughout the festival.

The grand finale is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, with the masquerade visiting several other locations. Oba Ladoja called on all stakeholders to ensure peace throughout the festival. He reiterated traditional customs, stating that women are forbidden from seeing the Oloolu Masquerade and cautioned the public against taking photographs or recording videos. The monarch also warned all participants against any actions that could cause unrest, urging security agencies to remain vigilant.

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in accordance with the tradition of Ibadanland, women are forbidden from seeing the Oloolu Masquerade.