Ijebu Ode Declares 7-Day Midnight Curfew for Oro Festival Rites

Residents of Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, are set to observe a seven-day midnight curfew as part of the annual Oro festival, beginning Wednesday, July 30 and ending Tuesday, August 5, 2025. The curfew, which runs daily from 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m., was announced by the Chairman of the Ijebu Ode Local Government, Dare Alebiosu.

In a statement released on Monday, Alebiosu explained that the curfew is necessary to allow the performance of traditional rites, which are central to the Oro festival. The festival, typically male-dominated, restricts movement—especially for women and non-initiates—during its ritual activities.

“The general public is hereby informed that there will be a daily Oro curfew across Ijebu Ode Local Government Area for seven consecutive days,” Alebiosu stated. “All movement is strictly prohibited between midnight and 4 a.m. during this period. Residents are strongly advised to remain indoors for their safety.”

He urged full cooperation from all, particularly non-indigenes, in respecting local traditions and maintaining public order. While no direct link was made, the timing of the curfew has raised speculation that it may be connected to the recent passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.