By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Chaos erupted during the popular Eyo Festival in Lagos on Saturday after clashes broke out between residents and masquerades, disrupting activities at some locations where the cultural celebration was taking place.
Videos circulating on social media showed moments of tension as groups of masquerades, popularly known as Eyo, were seen engaging in physical confrontations with residents and bystanders.
In some clips, people were seen fleeing the area while others attempted to intervene as the situation escalated.
Eyewitnesses said the violence reportedly started following disagreements over movement restrictions and alleged harassment of residents by some masquerades.
The confrontation quickly degenerated, leading to injuries and damage to property in the affected areas.
The Eyo Festival, also known as the Adamu Orisha Play, is a traditional Yoruba cultural event held to commemorate special occasions in Lagos, often attracting large crowds, tourists, and dignitaries.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident, including details on arrests or casualties.
Residents have called on authorities and festival organisers to strengthen security arrangements and enforce clear guidelines to prevent a recurrence of violence during future cultural celebrations.
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