Street parties banned in Lagos.

16 May, 2008

Lagos state governor Babatunde Fashola has signed into law a bill effectively banning street parties in the metropolis. The new legislation makes it an offence to obstruct traffic on any road in the state for commercial or social purposes. People found violating the law face a six month jail term or a N10,000 fine or both.

The provision comes in response to the chaos caused by so-called Owambe parties or lavish gatherings traditionally thrown by the Yoruba people of Lagos on special occasions. These celebrations usually involve food, dancing, loud music and