Females to Stay Indoors on May 16, "Lagos Upholding Traditional 'Oro' Festival - Palace Directive

The annual 'Oro' festival, deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition and customarily held in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has been officially scheduled for May 16, 2024. A notification from the Ayangburen Palace, signed by Oba Kabiru Shotobi, underscores the importance of tradition, advising all females to remain within their homes during the festival.

In a letter addressed to the Medical Director of the Ikorodu General Hospital and dated April 16, 2024, the Ayangburen Palace formally announced the upcoming 'Oro' festival. The advisory, titled 'Notification of Magbo (Oro) Festival 2024,' emphasized adherence to tradition, particularly concerning the participation of females in the festivities.

According to tradition, females are encouraged to observe indoors and abstain from venturing outside during the duration of the 'Oro' festival. The advisory extends to organizations within the festival's jurisdiction, urging compliance with the town's customs.

The 'Oro' festival holds significant cultural importance within the Yoruba community. Celebrated predominantly by male descendants, the festival typically features a daytime procession accompanied by distinctive high-pitched sounds resonating throughout the community. Central to the tradition is the belief that the presence of females during the festival's ritual rites is prohibited.

Despite attempts to seek clarification from relevant authorities, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, and the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, responses have yet to be received.

Efforts to gather additional information from the Ikorodu Palace have also been unsuccessful, as calls made remained unanswered.

As preparations for the 'Oro' festival progress, adherence to tradition and cultural sensitivities remains paramount, underscoring the importance of respecting and preserving age-old customs and practices.

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