A 23-day curfew imposed in Oyo State has caused tension and widespread criticism from religious leaders, legal experts, and residents. The curfew, which began on March 7, 2025, was announced by Rotimi Osuntola, Chief of Staff to the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade.

The restriction is part of the traditional Oro Ipebi rites, a sacred process before the new Alaafin officially ascends the throne. However, many residents, especially Muslims, are unhappy because the curfew coincides with Ramadan, a holy month of fasting and prayers.

Critics argue that the curfew violates human rights, disrupts religious activities, and may lead to religious conflicts.

The Oro Ipebi rites are an important part of the Alaafin’s ascension process. It involves seclusion, traditional rituals, and spiritual preparations for the new king. As part of these rites, movement is often restricted in certain areas, especially at night.

According to Osuntola, the curfew is necessary for the traditional purification process, which is believed to strengthen the new Alaafin’s spiritual connection to the throne.

However, the announcement has been met with strong opposition, as many believe the timing is inappropriate and unfair, especially for the Muslim community.

Professor Taofiq Yekini, a former National President of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), has strongly condemned the curfew. He described it as insensitive and an invitation to crisis.

He argued that the timing of the curfew during Ramadan is unfair, as this period is marked by night prayers (Tarawih and Tahajjud), pre-dawn meals (Suhur), and other religious activities. The restriction would prevent Muslims from fully observing their religious duties.

“This is insensitivity on the part of those who declared it and even the government for allowing such a decision. If Muslims react, they will be blamed, but this is clearly an invitation to crisis,” he said.

Dr. Mikail Abdulsalam, a lecturer at the University of Ibadan’s Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, has also warned that the curfew could trigger religious conflicts.

He criticized the decision from both a human rights and religious perspective, arguing that the right to freedom of movement is protected by the Nigerian Constitution.

“Declaring a curfew for a traditional ceremony is a violation of human rights. It is unconstitutional, barbaric, and outdated. Why should people be stopped from moving between 8 PM and 5 AM, especially during Ramadan?” he asked.

He also questioned why human rights activists and the government have remained silent on the issue.

Islamic scholar Dr. Sulaiman Adewale Alagunfon, Director of the Academy of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Ibadan, viewed the curfew as a test of faith for Muslims.

He criticized the Alaafin-elect, questioning his commitment to Islam and accusing him of favoring traditional beliefs over Islamic values.

“For a so-called Muslim king to declare such an anti-Islamic restriction during Ramadan shows his true allegiance. If he were a devoted Muslim, he would understand the importance of this period,” Alagunfon stated.

He urged Muslims in Oyo to remain steadfast in their worship and not be discouraged by the restrictions.

Ibadan-based lawyer Barrister Abiodun Amole has described the curfew as unconstitutional and unjustifiable.

He argued that it violates Section 41(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees citizens’ right to free movement throughout the country.

“This so-called curfew is illegal and a clear violation of human rights. It is extra-constitutional, inconsiderate, and unjustifiable. In a democratic society, no tradition should override the rule of law,” Amole declared.

He also cited international treaties such as:

• Article 13(1) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) – which states that everyone has the right to freedom of movement.
• Article 12(1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights – which also guarantees freedom of movement.

Amole raised important concerns about the practical consequences of the curfew:

• What happens if someone needs urgent medical attention at night?
• What if a pregnant woman goes into labor?
• What if there’s a fire outbreak that requires emergency response?

“Restricting movement for 23 days in an entire town is a joke taken too far. People’s lives and safety must come first,” he warned.

Dr. Bayonle Busari, a lecturer at Lead City University’s Department of Mass Communication and Media Technology, has called for a review of the curfew.

He warned that the restriction could lead to rebellion and unrest if not handled properly.

“The curfew affects a large number of people, especially Muslims and Christians, who make up most of the population. Oyo is also a major transit route for travelers between the north and south, so restricting movement could hurt businesses and cause frustration.”

He urged the state government and traditional leaders to find a solution that respects both culture and human rights.