Authorities in Benin’s Atlantique Department have ordered the suspension of public manifestations of the Egungun and Oro traditional cults until further notice, following concerns over safety and the organisation of ceremonies.

In a correspondence to mayors, the prefect directed local authorities to work with traditional dignitaries to identify and register cult compounds in villages and urban neighbourhoods. A report on the inventory is due within eight days, according to local media.

The prefecture cited the reported establishment of cult compounds by people it described as unauthorised, as well as incidents of violence and deaths during some public manifestations. The measure follows similar restrictions reported in other localities, including Abomey-Calavi.

The suspension applies across Atlantique Department. Authorities have not announced a date for when public ceremonies may resume. The development puts a focus on how local officials and traditional leaders will coordinate to address safety concerns while managing community and cultural practices.