Heavy Security at Osun-Osogbo Festival Amid Violence

The annual Osun-Osogbo cultural festival commenced in Osogbo on Friday, marked by a heavy security presence around the Osun-Osogbo Grove. Armed police operatives were stationed along access routes, while military personnel were positioned at the grove's last entrance.

Journalists were barred from accessing the podium where invited guests would be seated, as directed by the Chief Security Officer (CSO). A security source indicated that the heightened security was necessary due to recent killings in Osun attributed to cult group rivalries.

Omisewa Omolade, an Osun adherent from Ikorodu, Lagos State, emphasized the festival's importance in Yoruba spirituality. The Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, and the votary maid were expected to arrive for the final rites.

The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, had previously assured stakeholders of comprehensive security measures for the festival, which attracts numerous visitors from Nigeria and abroad.