The League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has strongly condemned the imposition of a daytime curfew in Ikolaje and Idiroko communities of Ipokia Local Government Area, planned in connection with the burial rites of the late Oniko of Ikoland, Oba John Adekunle.
In a formal petition dated July 24, sent to Governor Dapo Abiodun and key security agencies, the clerics warned that the move by traditionalists to enforce movement restrictions during the day constitutes a gross violation of Nigeria’s constitution, court rulings, and existing peace agreements.
Tensions have escalated in the affected communities as traditionalists reportedly began implementing curfews starting from July 21, with plans to continue until August 19, 2025. Residents, including business owners and worshippers, are allegedly being threatened and forced to stay indoors during the day.
The Muslim leaders referenced a landmark judgment by Justice S.M. Owodunni of the Ogun State High Court in Ipokia on January 30, 2017, which declared that imposing a daytime curfew for traditional rites—especially the Oro festival—is unconstitutional. The court ruled that such festivals must only be held between 12:00 midnight and 4:00 a.m., safeguarding citizens’ rights to movement and worship.
Quoting the petition, the Muslim leaders stated:
“We have credible reports that certain individuals claiming to be traditional practitioners have commenced efforts to impose unlawful curfews, threatening residents and violating lawful norms.”
The League emphasized its respect for all religions but insisted that no cultural tradition should override constitutional liberties. They cited multiple peace accords—including a stakeholders’ agreement dated August 21, 2019, and another peace meeting on February 27, 2020—where all parties, including traditionalists, agreed to nighttime-only Oro activities and to avoid disrupting worship centres and schools.
They also referenced a 2012 directive from the Yewa Traditional Council and a 2018 confirmation by the state’s Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs banning Oro rites during the daytime.
Recalling past violence, they noted that breaches of these agreements in 2019 led to mosque vandalism and attacks on Muslim worshippers by Oro and Orisa devotees.
The clerics now call on Governor Abiodun to act swiftly by deploying security operatives to restore law and order, halt the unconstitutional curfew, and hold defaulters accountable. They also urged the governor to publicly reaffirm the state’s policy limiting Oro festival rites to midnight hours only, in line with court rulings and stakeholder consensus.
They concluded by reassuring citizens of their right to move freely, conduct business, and worship without intimidation or fear.
