What was meant to be a colourful celebration of Lagos history has been overshadowed by disturbing scenes of violence after videos emerged showing Eyo masquerades attacking residents during the ongoing 2025 Eyo Festival.
One of the viral clips, which began circulating on Saturday, shows about four men dressed in the traditional white Eyo attire with red caps repeatedly striking a man with their staves. As the victim struggled to protect himself, other masked figures were seen running toward the scene, apparently to join the assault, while bystanders watched helplessly without intervening.
In another video sighted by SaharaReporters, tensions escalated further as residents were seen throwing chairs and other objects at a group of Eyo masquerades during a street procession. The confrontation reportedly broke out when some of the masquerades moved toward a gate where residents had gathered.
The footage has triggered widespread condemnation online, especially on X (formerly Twitter), with many Nigerians expressing shock that violence could erupt during what is traditionally regarded as a sacred and peaceful cultural event.
“I no understand this generation of Eyo at all,” wrote Oziegbe Odion (#DaSTReet5). “The Eyo wey I sabi before no dey mob person like this. Dem just dey parade with respect and vibes.”
Others questioned the justification for the attack. “This is absolutely wrong,” Oladele (#dele003) posted. “Why attack an innocent person with a staff when you know it will injure them?”
While some social media users speculated that the victim may have violated traditional rules—such as wearing shoes or headgear near the masquerades—many argued that nothing justified such brutality. “He probably did what he wasn’t meant to do, but the beating is extreme,” noted #Teeewyy.
Others blamed the violence on miscreants hijacking the cultural festival. “This is one thing I hate about this celebration,” wrote #TheMandillas. “Miscreants will use this opportunity to maltreat innocent passersby.”
The 2025 Eyo Festival, the first since 2017, earlier attracted high-profile dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Tafawa Balewa Square. However, the violent scenes have raised serious concerns about crowd control, safety, and the conduct of some masquerades during street processions.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government has yet to issue an official response to the incidents captured in the viral videos.
