The management of Olabisi Onabanjo University has announced a temporary restriction of movement within parts of Ago-Iwoye as traditionalists in Idode Quarters prepare to conduct Oro traditional rites.
In an official statement issued by the university’s Corporate Affairs Division, members of the university community and residents were informed that the rites would hold between 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026, and 4:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.
According to the notice, both human and vehicular movements would be strictly prohibited within the affected area during the specified period in line with the traditional practices associated with the Oro deity.
The university explained that the directive followed information received from leaders of the Idode Community through the Palace of the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Abdul-Rasaq Adenugba.
The statement disclosed that the traditional exercise forms part of the burial rites organised in honour of the late Lewu of Idode Quarters.
The institution subsequently advised members of the public, including indigenes and non-indigenes residing within the community, to remain indoors throughout the duration of the exercise.
“Members of the public, including indigenes and non-indigenes, are strictly advised and warned to remain indoors to enable the traditionalists carry out their assignment during the specified hours within Idode Community,” the statement read.
The university particularly urged students and staff members residing within Idode Quarters and neighbouring areas to comply fully with the movement restriction directive to avoid any security concerns or confrontation during the rites.
The notice was signed by Dr. Wale Balogun on behalf of the Deputy Registrar, Corporate Affairs Division of the university.
Copies of the release were distributed to principal officers of the institution, including the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Provosts, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, labour union leaders, security units, and the Students’ Union Government.
Traditional Oro rites remain a significant cultural and spiritual practice in many Yoruba communities, often accompanied by temporary curfews and restrictions intended to preserve the sanctity of the exercise.
Residents within Ago-Iwoye and surrounding communities are expected to comply with the directive until the conclusion of the rites in the early hours of Friday morning.
