Ondo: Police warn against crime as Akure marks Aheregbe festival

As Akure community of Ondo state capital, celebrates the annual Aheregbe festival, the Ondo State Police Command has warned against using the festival as a cover for criminal activities in the ancient town.

This warning was contained in a statement issued and signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO ) Olayinka Ayanlade, who urged the people of the town to celebrate the festival within the confines of the law.

According to the PPRO, “the state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, warned that any acts of violence, theft, vandalism, or destruction of lives and property during the festival would not be tolerated.

He stressed that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted according to the law, urging the people to behave responsibly during the festivities.

Lawal noted that culture should be preserved in tandem with respect for law, order, and the rights of others, but urged the people to be orderly during the festival.

He also commended the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun II, for preserving the kingdom’s cultural values and guiding the festival’s conduct.

He said, “cultural celebrations must always be conducted within the ambit of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and extant laws.

“The Command will not condone any abuse of such traditions by individuals or groups who seek to take advantage of the Aregbe (Dudu) Festival in Akure to perpetrate acts of violence, theft, vandalism, or the destruction of lives and properties.

“Such actions not only tarnish the sanctity of the festival but also threaten the peace and stability of the community.

“Parents and guardians are therefore urged to prevail upon their children and wards to conduct themselves responsibly during the celebrations.

“The preservation of culture must go hand in hand with respect for law and order and fundamental rights of an individual member of the society.

The command also appreciated the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for their support to security agencies in maintaining peace in the state

The Police command congratulated the Deji, the Akure Kingdom, and all participants who uphold the true essence of the festival, which it said is to foster love, unity, and peace.

It will be recalled that the palace of Deji of Akure, in Wednesday, announced the closure of all markets, stalls, and shops in Akure to mark the annual Aheregbe Festival.

This was contained In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deji, Adeyeye Michael, who said the closure is in line with the age-long tradition of the festival.

The palace warned that no trading or shop opening would be allowed under any guise during the celebration, urging residents, market women, and shop owners to strictly comply with the directive.

The Aheregbe Festival is one of Akure Kingdom’s traditional celebrations, aimed at preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity among the people.

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