The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja has warned residents of the ancient city against taking pictures, filming or recording Oloolu masquerade.
The frontline monarch also disclosed that women are not allowed to see the masquerade as the 2026 Oloolu Masquerade Festival will begin on Monday, July 27, with a series of traditional visits across Ibadan.
The traditional ruler gave the directives in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Chief Solomon Ayoade, on Friday.
Oloolu is reportedly the biggest masquerade in the history of the ancient city.
The Olubadan in the statement, announced that the annual Oloolu festival will begin on Monday, warning that residents are not allowed to take pictures, film or record the masquerade.
He also disclosed that the custom demands that women are not allowed to see the masquerade and advised residents to abide by the rules and regulations guiding the procession.
The traditional ruler also enjoined security agencies to prevent breakdown of law and order during the procession.
The statement read, “His Imperial Majesty warned women not to see Oloolu as it is a taboo according to the tradition of Ibadanland to do so, the photograph and video of the masquerade should not be taken.
“Kabiyesi warned Oloolu Masquerade, other Egungun leaders and their followers, other religious adherents as well as the members of the public to give peace a chance and should desist from any activity that can cause crisis or break down of law and order during the festival activities.”