Many communities in Lagos have fixed traditional “oro” rites before and after the March 18 governorship and state assembly elections, a move believe to be targeted at scuttling public access during the elections and results collation.

The communities warned residents and commuters to stay indoors and away from the road from dusk till dawn. 

Many community leaders fixed the time between 12:00 a.m., and 5:00 a.m., while assuring residents that the traditional rites will end before 8:00 a.m.

These communities assure residents who expressed fears over the voting process being delayed that it will not intervene in the elections.

The communities include Ikorodu, Ojodu, Ikate, Ijegun and Isheri. 

Oro is a traditional rite in Yoruba communities  in Nigeria. The event is an annual event that is celebrated by only the male indigenes of the community.

Women and non-indigenes do not participate in the festival, they stay indoor until sunrise.