The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, has ordered the immediate cancellation of the ongoing 2026 Egungun Festival after a violent clash in the Aguodo area of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, left one person dead.

The annual cultural festival, which commenced on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, was originally scheduled to run until Sunday, 19 July 2026.

THENEWSCREDIT reports that the cancellation was announced in an official palace statement signed by the Palace Secretary, Mr. Toyin Ajamu, on behalf of the monarch. The decisive action follows the fatal shooting during the Aguodo fracas and a series of attacks by hoodlums, which threatened to escalate into widespread violence.

The monarch has directed law enforcement agencies to strictly enforce the ban and maintain public peace. According to the palace statement, security operatives have been ordered to arrest and prosecute anyone caught violating the directive, continuing the celebrations, or attempting to instigate further trouble.

"We count on your maximum cooperation to ensure strict compliance and maintenance of peace and order," the statement addressed to security agencies read.