The Lagos State Government has categorically denied any involvement in the purported Oro festival slated for August 1 to 15, which coincides with the highly anticipated #EndBadGovernance protest. In a candid telephone conversation with PUNCH Online, Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, drew a clear parallel between the Oro festival and other religious activities held nationwide.
Akosile emphasized that just as the government refrains from interfering with Muslim and Christian events, the same courtesy should be extended to traditional worshippers, who are constitutionally entitled to practice their faith without hindrance. He asserted that the government’s role is not to dictate how religious groups conduct their lawful activities.
“Oro festival is akin to Muslim and Christian activities – it’s a matter of personal faith, not government interference,” Akosile stated unequivocally. “We respect the rights of protesters, just as we respect the rights of traditional worshippers to perform their activities. It’s not our concern how they choose to exercise their rights.”
By distancing itself from the Oro festival, the Lagos State Government has sent a clear message: it will not be drawn into the controversy surrounding the event, and will instead uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens to freedom of worship and assembly.