Oluwo Meets Iwo Masquerade Leaders Following Osun Govt Warning
Oluwo Meets Iwo Masquerade Leaders Following Osun Govt Warning
Days after receiving a warning letter from the Osun State Government, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, surprised observers by hosting Egungun (masquerade) leaders at his palace.
The meeting marks a notable shift for the monarch, who has long opposed traditional worshippers and declared himself above all deities.
Addressing the leaders, Oba Akanbi clarified that he supports indigenous Yoruba culture but opposes the violence and intimidation often associated with the Egungun festival. He stated that masquerades are welcome to dance and celebrate peacefully at the palace, provided they abandon weapons.
The monarch revealed that he previously barred the “King’s Masquerade” (Sokoti) from the palace for attacking residents with machetes, warning that such behavior sets a dangerous precedent.
Comparing the festival to peaceful Christian and Islamic celebrations, Oba Akanbi emphasized that his goal is to reform and purify local traditions so residents can enjoy the festivities without fear.
