Nigerians are reacting after it was announced that the Oro Festival will take place from August 1 to August 15, overlapping with the period when some groups have planned #EndBadGovt protests.
The announcement, which went viral on social media on Wednesday, July 24, informed Lagos residents of the festival’s dates and its significance. The notice stated, “Please be informed that the Oro Festival will be observed in various communities across Lagos from August 1 to August 15. This traditional Yoruba cultural event involves significant rituals.”
This news comes shortly after some groups declared their intention to stage demonstrations nationwide from August 1 to August 10, protesting against economic hardships in the country.
On X, many Nigerians are accusing the Lagos State government of using the Oro Festival for political purposes. This situation echoes concerns from 2023, when the timing of the Oro Festival before the Lagos State governorship election was criticized for allegedly being scheduled to hinder voters opposed to the ruling party from casting their votes freely.
See reactions to the current Oro Festival announcement below.
