NYSC cautions female corps members ahead of Egungun Festival in Oyo

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oyo State has issued a strong advisory to female corps members in Ibadan, urging them to avoid restricted areas during the forthcoming Egungun festival.

Mrs. Abimbola Faniyi, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit, said in a statement on Saturday that the advisory was necessary because many corps members, especially females, might not be familiar with the cultural sensitivities surrounding the traditional celebration.

The annual Oloolu Egungun festival, which runs from Monday to Thursday, will feature the masquerade parading through areas such as Oje, Gate, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Orita-Merin, Beere, Oranyan, Idi-Arere, Agugu, Oke-Aremo, Oremeji, and the Olubadan Palace.

“Corps members should know that it is forbidden for females to see the masquerade,” Faniyi warned. “We strongly advise all our female corps members to abide by this tradition whenever the masquerade is passing through their areas.”

Corps members were further cautioned against taking photos or videos of the masquerade or attempting to interfere with any traditional rites associated with the festival.

The NYSC also appealed to transport union leaders to ensure that drivers do not take corps members through sensitive routes during the festivities to avoid any confrontation.

Faniyi urged corps members to comply with advice from community leaders and security agencies. She reiterated the commitment of the NYSC, alongside the Oyo State Coordinator, Mr. Peters Kayode, to safeguarding the safety and welfare of all corps members.

The Egungun festival is a revered cultural event in Ibadan marked by rituals and customs that limit public participation, especially for women. Authorities consistently enforce these traditions to maintain order during the celebration.