The Olubadan Palace has officially announced that this year’s edition of the annual Egungun Oloolu Festival, the most revered masquerade event in Ibadanland, will commence on Monday, 28th July, and conclude on Thursday, 31st July, 2025.
According to a statement signed by Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Oloolu masquerade will visit several key locations across the city. These include the Oyo State Government House at Agodi, the Olubadan Palace at Oke Aremo, a royal visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba (Senator) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, as well as other notable areas within the Ibadan municipality.
The statement strongly advised women to avoid any form of contact with the Oloolu masquerade, emphasizing that it is considered a serious taboo for women to witness the appearance of the revered Egungun. “Women are thoroughly advised to avoid the masquerade at all cost and not cross his path in their own interest,” the release cautioned.
Law enforcement agencies have been urged to ensure maximum security during the four-day festival by protecting lives and property, as well as curbing any criminal activities often associated with the celebration.
The Oloolu Festival is an ancient tradition in Ibadanland aimed at entertaining and appeasing the gods and goddesses for peace, unity, and prosperity across the land.
