Osogbo Bars Party Uniforms, Posters at Eid Grounds

 

The Osogbo community in Osun State has banned political discussions and the wearing of party uniforms at Eid praying grounds during this year’s celebrations as part of efforts to maintain peace and order.

The directive was contained in a public service announcement aired on some radio stations in the state and circulated on social media on Thursday. It was signed by the Asiwaju of Osogbo, Justice Moshood Adeigbe (retd.), who also announced a ban on drummers and the display of political party posters within the premises of the praying grounds.

According to the statement, the decision was taken after a stakeholders’ meeting attended by the Chief Imam of Osogbo, representatives of security agencies, political parties, and other groups. The meeting was held under the leadership of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, to ensure a peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebration across the town.

The statement directed all Muslims attending Eid prayers in Osogbo to avoid wearing clothes or caps bearing political party emblems, displaying posters, or engaging in political discussions at the praying grounds. It warned that the order applies to all Eid prayer grounds in Osogbo and that anyone who violates it will be arrested by security agents.

The move follows concerns over the use of prayer grounds for political activities, especially during election periods, which have sometimes led to crises and a breakdown of law and order. One such incident occurred on June 28, 2023, when a disagreement over seating arrangements at the Osogbo Eid praying ground sparked a clash between aides of Governor Ademola Adeleke and former Senate spokesperson Ajibola Basiru during Eid-el-Kabir prayers.