The Secretary of the Oloolu compound in Ibadan, Oluwo Ishola Akeem, has explained why TikToker, Wasilat Olalere underwent traditional cleansing rites after recording parts of the annual Oloolu masquerade festival.

The rites followed controversy over a video she posted online.

According to Akeem, Olalere had tried to record the masquerade during last year’s festival but failed. This year, she returned dressed as a man in another attempt to capture the event. She filmed the followers and entourage, though she could not capture the masquerade itself, and later posted the video with a caption identifying the location.

Family members confronted her after seeing the post. She confessed to recording and sharing the footage despite longstanding customs that prohibit the public from filming the revered masquerade. She also said she had fallen ill after the incident.

For safety reasons, she was taken from her home to the police station as tension rose. She later deleted the video, apologised, and participated in the traditional cleansing at the Oloolu family compound. Officials confirmed she has completed the rites and returned home safely.

Akeem dismissed rumours that the TikToker had died and warned the public against violating the sacred taboos of the Oloolu tradition.

He said anyone who breaks the rules risks facing the consequences associated with the masquerade.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper