The Lagos State Police Command has halted an Egungun festival scheduled to hold this Friday and Saturday in the Oregun area after posters circulated warning residents to stay indoors during the event.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, several suspects were arrested for distributing handbills and social media notices under the name “Oje Parapo of Oregun,” restricting movement and causing fear among residents.

Adebisi said the materials, which attempted to dictate when people could move freely, posed a serious threat to public peace.

Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, ordered the immediate suspension of the festival, stressing that no cultural or social gathering that endangers public safety would be allowed in Lagos.

The Command also linked the incident to a similar case on November 23 in Mafoluku, Oshodi, where officers arrested 12 individuals for circulating provocative publications aimed at triggering unrest. All suspects from both incidents remain in custody and will be charged after investigations.

Reiterating the ban, CP Jimoh instructed the organisers to call off the planned celebration, saying security agencies could not guarantee safety given the tension already created.

He condemned the attempt to intimidate the public and assured Lagosians that they can go about their daily activities without fear, as the police remain fully committed to protecting lives and property.