Panic as Ogun community declares curfew for traditional rites

Samson Folarin, Sagamu

There is panic in the Sagamu area of Ogun State as the traditional ruler of the community has reportedly declared a three-day curfew from 10pm on Wednesday.

Residents, who spoke to PUNCH Metro, advised our correspondent to stay indoors till 6am throughout the period of the curfew.

“They (traditionalists) said they wanted to do ‘etutu’ (sacrifice). Nobody is expected to come out from 10pm on Wednesday till 6am on Thursday and the other days. Be advised. It is their land and they have the right to do whatever pleases them,” a trader told our correspondent.

A youth, who asked not to be identified, wondered what would be the fate of football enthusiasts, who would be watching the European Champions League at viewing centres on Wednesday night.

“Whoever goes to watch the Champions League has to sleep in the viewing centres. There is no two ways about it. But it is advisable to just stay indoors,” he said.

Our correspondent could not ascertain the real reason for the curfew as residents were of different opinions.

While some claimed that it was a periodic traditional exercise, others said it was to prevent bloodshed during Saturday’s elections.

As of 5pm on Wednesday, residents were seen going about their normal activities.

“But from 7pm, people will start closing their shops and running to their houses. The town crier has been going round to make the announcement and warn people not to violate the instruction from the palace,” a woman told PUNCH Metro.

The state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Waliu Ojuko, said he could not comment on the issue.

“You are the first person to tell me about it just now. But if it has to do with traditional rites and the palace, you may need to get in touch with the local government chairman. I cannot comment on it,” he said.

Ojuko, however, declined the request of our correspondent for the contact of the council chairman.

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said he was not aware of the curfew.