Masquerade in Police Custody Over Alleged Killing of 24-Year-Old During Ibadan Festival Procession

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

IBADAN – The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a traditional masquerade, popularly known as Asoleke, over the alleged killing of a 24-year-old man during a cultural procession in the Labiran area of Ibadan.

The deceased, identified as Sefiu Kehinde, reportedly lost his life on Sunday evening after he was allegedly attacked with dangerous weapons by the masquerade and several of its followers. The incident, which occurred in the presence of residents, has sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for tighter regulation of traditional festival processions.

Initial reports indicate that Kehinde was assaulted as the masquerade procession moved through the busy neighbourhood. Eyewitnesses claimed the group accompanying the masquerade used excessive force, although police say the exact events leading to the fatal encounter are still being investigated.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed that the incident was reported at the Mapo Divisional Police Headquarters by a woman identified as Mrs. Aderemi. He added that officers responded promptly, leading to the arrest of the principal suspect.

According to DSP Olayinka, the police are treating the matter as a serious criminal case. He stated that the arrested masquerade is cooperating with investigators and that a comprehensive inquiry is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding Kehinde’s death.

The police spokesperson also urged residents to remain peaceful and avoid taking matters into their own hands. He assured the public that everyone found to have played a role in the incident would be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Authorities further confirmed that the victim’s body has been deposited in a state-owned hospital for an autopsy, while security operatives continue efforts to locate and apprehend other suspects believed to have been involved in the attack.

Although masquerade festivals remain an important part of Yoruba cultural tradition, similar celebrations have occasionally been overshadowed by violent incidents, prompting sustained calls from civil society organisations and community stakeholders for improved safety measures during public processions.

At the time of filing this report, neither the traditional authorities nor the organisers of the festival had issued an official response. Police investigations into the incident are continuing.