Osun-Osogbo Festival: Police issue warning  to criminals

The Osun State Police Command has warned cultists, hoodlums, thieves and other criminal elements against taking advantage of the Osun Osogbo festival to commit offences.

The police also warned that anyone attempting to disrupt public peace would face the full weight of the law.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan.

Gotan also assured residents, visitors, tourists and worshippers of adequate security before, during and after the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival.

He said, “Cultists, hoodlums, thieves and other criminal elements are hereby warned against taking advantage of the festival to commit offences. Anyone attempting to disrupt public peace would face the full weight of the law.”

The statement said the Command was committed to ensuring a peaceful, orderly and successful festival.

According to the police, “the internationally recognised Osun-Osogbo Festival attracts thousands of visitors from across Nigeria and abroad, making comprehensive security arrangements essential for the protection of lives and property.”

DSP Ojelabi said Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and other operational units had been directed to implement extensive security measures across Osogbo and other strategic locations.

“The deployments were designed to maintain public order throughout the festivities. Security personnel would be strategically stationed at major festival venues, access roads, worship and tourist sites, markets, motor parks and other identified flashpoints to ensure effective policing during the celebration,” the statement added.

The Command also said it would collaborate with relevant government agencies, traditional institutions, festival organisers, community leaders and other security stakeholders to strengthen coordination and provide swift responses to any security challenges that might arise.

The police stated that adequate arrangements had been made to regulate traffic, manage large crowds, prevent criminal activities and respond promptly to emergencies during the festival period.

The statement urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant, obey the law and cooperate fully with security personnel. It also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious persons, objects or activities to the nearest police formation or other security agencies.

“Parents and guardians are advised to closely monitor their children and wards in crowded locations, while motorists and other road users are urged to comply with traffic regulations and follow instructions from officers deployed for traffic managements.”

The Commissioner of Police said appropriate measures had already been put in place to identify and decisively tackle criminal activities in accordance with the law.

He also commended residents of Osun State for their continued support and cooperation with the police.