Egungun festival: NYSC tells female corps members what to do

As preparations intensify for the annual Egungun festival in Ibadan, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oyo State has urged female corps members to steer clear of certain traditional routes during the celebration.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Mrs. Abimbola Faniyi, who heads the NYSC’s Information and Public Relations Unit in the state, said the advisory became necessary due to the unfamiliarity many corps members have with local customs.

The festival, known locally as ‘Oloolu’, is scheduled to run from Monday to Thursday, with the masquerade expected to move through several parts of the city. According to the NYSC, areas to avoid include Oje, Gate, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Orita-Merin, Beere, Oranyan, Idi-Arere, Agugu, Oke-Aremo, Oremeji, and the Olubadan Palace, among others.

“Corps members should know that it is forbidden for females/women to see the masquerade,” Faniyi said.“Therefore, we strongly advise all our female corps members to abide by this tradition whenever the masquerade is passing through their areas.“Corps members are also advised to avoid any gathering around the masquerade’s designated routes during the festival.”

She further warned against taking photographs or recording videos of the masquerade, stressing that such actions are considered disrespectful to local customs.

“Comply with local advice and instructions from community leaders and security personnel,” she added.“Corps members are strongly warned to abide by these precautionary measures, as the management of NYSC in the state, under the leadership of Mr. Peters Kayode, remained committed to corps members’ welfare and safety.”

Additionally, transport unions in the state were urged to ensure their drivers avoid routes where the masquerade will be active, especially when conveying corps members or prospective corps members during the festival.

Faniyi emphasized that corps members must not question or interfere with traditional rites, and should adhere strictly to cultural sensitivities throughout the event.