The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has warned residents and visitors against taking photographs or recording videos of the Oloolu masquerade during the 2026 Oloolu Masquerade Festival.
The traditional ruler said it is a taboo under the customs and traditions of Ibadanland for women to see the Oloolu masquerade, adding that photographs and video recordings of the revered masquerade are also prohibited.
The warning was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, ahead of the commencement of the annual festival.
According to the statement, activities for the 2026 Oloolu Festival will begin on Monday, July 27, with the traditional visit of the Oloolu masquerade to the Olubadan’s Palace at Oke-Aremo, where prayers will be offered for the monarch, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, indigenes, residents and the peace and prosperity of Ibadanland.
The festival will continue with visits to several communities across the Ibadan metropolis before concluding on Thursday, July 30.
Oba Ladoja urged residents to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the celebration and cautioned the Oloolu masquerade, other Egungun leaders, their followers, adherents of other religions and members of the public against any act capable of causing a breach of the peace.
The monarch also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and ensure the protection of lives and property during the festival.
The Oloolu Festival marks the grand finale of the annual Ibadan Egungun Festival, which began on June 21, and is traditionally observed with prayers for peace, security, unity and the continued development of Ibadanland.