The Oyo State government has announced the scheduled movement of the Ibadan-based popular Oloolu Masquerade across selected areas in Ibadan from Monday, 28 July to Thursday, 31 July, 2025.
The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, made this known in a statement, on Monday.
The commissioner maintained that unlike other masquerades, Oloolu does not follow a fixed route, as its movement is guided spiritually.
He however listed some of the notable areas expected to be visited during the procession to include Aafin Olubadan, Beere, Oje, Idi Arere, Gate, Agbeni, Orita Merin, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Oranyan, Oke Aremo, Agugu and Oremeji, among others.
Olatunbosun stated that the popular Oloolu, one of the most significant egungun (masquerades) in Ibadan, is deeply rooted in the city’s rich cultural history.
He explained that women are traditionally forbidden to see the Oloolu, except for those born as triplets, and who are believed to have received special blessings from the masquerade.
The Oyo State government therefore appealed to residents of Ibadan, especially women, to remain mindful of the cultural significance of the festival.
The commissioner also urged them to cooperate with local authorities and community leaders during the movement of the Oloolu masquerade.
He expressed his appreciation to the general public and solicited their continued support and understanding “as we celebrate this important aspect of the Ibadan rich cultural heritage,” it was added in the statement.
