The Commissioner of Police for the Osun Command, Patrick Kehinde Longe, has issued a stern warning against any form of lawlessness or disorder within the state.
Longe issued this warning during a security meeting with the masquerade custodian, Pa Kayode Esuleke, and Alhaji Kasim Yunis, Chief Imam of the Kamarudeen Mosque in Oke Baale, Osogbo.
The conference was organised because the Egungun (masquerade) event will be held on Friday (today), July 14, 2023.
Recalled that on June 27, 2021, masquerade worshippers in Osogbo allegedly attacked Kamarudeen Central Mosque, located at Oluode Aranyin.
The committee had assembled to plan a unique programme for the country.
During the violent conflict, Egungun devotees allegedly assaulted a mosque, injuring approximately 13 worshippers.
The organization’s leader in Iwo, Osun State, Moshood Salawudeen, was shot in the head and died before reaching the hospital.
Longe, who insisted on maintaining law and order, pointed out that the festival was renowned for violating security and threatening lives and property.
He also exhorted followers of both faiths to keep the peace.
In his words, “This meeting is based on the security of lives and property within your environs, having recalled the breakdown of security which usually occurred during the Egungun festivities/celebration in which another one is set to commence on Friday, 14th July, 2023.
“I will not condone anything that will cause a breach of peace in any way.
“I urge you to maintain peace and allow anyone to practice his/her faith/belief.”
Pa Esuleke told the head of the Osun police that there would be no issues in their individual responses.
Also the Chief Imam of the Kamarudeen Mosque, Alhaji Kasim Yunis,made a similar assurance on the peaceful coexistence of diverse religions.
