Ogun Muslim Leaders Protest Daytime Lockdown Imposed for Oro Rites
Muslim clerics under the League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State have strongly condemned an alleged attempt by traditional religion practitioners to enforce a daytime lockdown on residents of Ikolaje and Idiroko in Ipokia Local Government Area. The restriction is reportedly being carried out under the guise of performing Oro rites for the late Oniko of Ikoland, Oba John Olakunle.
In a formal petition addressed to Governor Dapo Abiodun, the religious leaders accused some Oro adherents of violating citizens’ constitutional rights by forcing people to stay indoors during daylight hours. The group alleged that from July 21 to August 19, 2025, residents have been threatened with violence and forced shop closures if they violate the imposed curfew.
While affirming their respect for traditional practices, the Muslim leaders declared the action illegal and unconstitutional. They referenced a 2017 High Court ruling by Justice S.M. Owodunni, which declared that no group has the authority to restrict people’s movement for traditional purposes, particularly during the day.
The petition, signed by the League’s Secretary-General, Imam Tajudeen Mustapha Adewunmi, reminded the governor of several legal and community resolutions that had previously settled this issue. Among them were a 2019 stakeholders’ agreement between Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists that limited Oro activities to midnight through 4 a.m., and a 2020 peace communiqué endorsed by religious groups, traditional leaders, and security agencies—including the late monarch himself.
The League also cited directives from the Ogun State Government and the Yewa Traditional Council, both of which explicitly banned Oro rites during daytime hours. They further recalled past violations of these agreements, such as the 2019 attack on a mosque and physical assaults on worshippers, which were allegedly carried out by Oro followers.
The religious group warned that the current situation threatens peaceful coexistence and religious freedom in the state. They called on Governor Abiodun to take immediate action by deploying security forces to halt the curfew and to sanction any traditional leader who defies standing court orders and community agreements.
Reaffirming the constitutional right of all residents to free movement, worship, and commerce, the League urged the state government to reinforce the Inter-Religious Peace Monitoring Committee to help maintain harmony.
“We remain committed to peace and to supporting your administration in upholding the rule of law,” the petition concluded, with copies sent to security agencies, traditional councils, and local government authorities.
