Outrage as Masquerader Harasses Muslim Cleric in Ogbomosho for Wearing Cap
There was public outrage after a disturbing incident occurred at Ọja’gbo in Ogbomosho, where a masquerader was captured in a viral video harassing a man for simply wearing a cap.
According to eyewitnesses and video footage shared online, the unidentified cleric, who was riding a bike, respectfully pulled over to allow the masqueraders pass. However, in an unprovoked display of aggression, one of the masqueraders used his ceremonial stick to knock off the man’s cap.
Even after the encounter, the masquerader reportedly turned back to see if the man would react, possibly in an attempt to provoke further confrontation.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation across social media and community platforms, with many calling for accountability and respect for personal freedoms during traditional festivities.
Abiola Enuoranoba commented: “But what is the man’s offence wearing cap? That is how some of them invite curses to their head.”
Mojeed Olajide Kehinde weighed in: “It is good that the man was patient enough. Thereafter, he should have reported the malfeasance to the Olori Oje in the town. They can call the person who was shrouded in masquerade to order. The egungun has a particular Oje name and they know who adorned the regalia on the particular day. Were this to be in Lagos, the clothing would have been torn.”
Abdulmumini Issa Olatunji pointed out the broader implications: “This is not the first time in the southwest such an inappropriate and intolerant action will be on display. Recently, the Imam of Oke Agbe in Akoko, Ondo State, alongside his family, was brutalized by so-called traditionalists, prompting MURIC, MUSWEN, MULAN, MSSN, and others to condemn the provocation. Similar scenarios have happened in Ilesa, Osogbo, Ikorodu, and even Oke Ogun, where a military officer acted violently on Sallah day.”
He added: “More often than not, you’ll see traditional rulers suing for peace, promising amicable solutions. But the truth is, there can be no peace without justice. Day in, day out, Muslims are being pushed to the wall by those who believe they’re untouchable or invincible. Perpetrators and their supporters should know that no group has a monopoly on violence.”
Aare Ayobami Ayoola also expressed his disappointment: “This is totally wrong. The man had already respected the egungun enough. I don’t know why tolerance is every day packing his load among us.”
Mubarak Olawale Jamiu added bluntly: “This is the nonsense some people want us to leave Islam for?”
Abdul-salaam Abdul-fatai Akinade called for legislative action: “The federal government should make laws that will curb these immoral acts during idol festivals. The family of any erring masquerader should face consequences as a deterrent.”
This incident has reignited conversations around religious tolerance, cultural extremism, and the need to respect the rights of individuals during traditional events. Many are now calling for clearer boundaries and enforcement to prevent such abuses in the name of culture.
