Deji Of Akure Orders Closure Of Markets To Honour Traditional Festival

The Deji of Akure, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo, has ordered that all markets and shops in the town should be closed next Monday.

The monarch,.who gave this directive in a statement by his Press Secretary, Mr Michael Adeyeye, on Friday said the closure of the markets would allow the people of the town to celebrate the annual Aheregbe and Amole festivals.

The paramount traditional ruler said human and vehicular movements would not be restricted during the festival.

He explained that the closure order was in line with the age-long tradition of the town which forbids commercial activities during some traditional festivals.

The monarch also warned residents against hawking, selling and buying during the festivals.

Oba Aladetoyinbo warned that trading or opening of shops under any guise would not be allowed during the period.

He enjoined traders and artisans in the town and other neighbouring communities to cooperate with the traditionalists during the period of the festival.