Traders, residents lament closure of markets for traditional festivals in Akure

The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, has disclosed that he will commence his annual traditional seven-day leave known as ‘Ulefunta.’

The monarch, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Michael Adeyeye, stated that the leave, which began on Tuesday, will end on Monday, stressing that during the period, the beating of drums under any guise will be prohibited while a part of the popular Oja Oba market, Akure, Ondo State capital, will also be closed.

According to the traditional ruler, the period of the annual leave will be used to pray for peace, prosperity, and progress of Akure kingdom, Ondo State, and the country at large, adding that the road leading to the Deji’s Palace will be closed to commuters during the period.

A few weeks back, the monarch ordered the closure of markets within the Akure metropolis during the celebration of the ‘Aheregbe’ and ‘Amole’ festivals.

Meanwhile, the recent development has generated worry among some traders and residents of Akure, who argued that the traditional festivals occurring three or more times a year had continued to place a burden on them amid the current economic hardship.

Expressing displeasure on the issue, a trader who sells curtain material along the palace road, Kevin, stated that the traditional festivals ought to have been reviewed or modified in such a way that will not add to the hardship in the country.

He said: “With the hardship that we are facing, particularly us relying on daily income, the festivals are just too much. The festival can be celebrated, but not to the extent of forcing us to close up our shops.

“They should put into consideration that this is a tough time for everyone. What is the essence of why banks, malls, and hotels will be allowed to remain open but us with small shops will be forced to close?”

Another trader, who simply identified herself as Tomisin, stated that, “I think the world has moved past all this. Akure is not a rural community but a whole state capital. Even in the interiors of Ondo State, such festivals don’t add pressure to the people.

However, an indigene of Akure, Tolu Fadairo, emphasised that the traditions that had been in existence since time immemorial cannot, because of modernisation, be abandoned.

According to him, the festivals were not being observed for fun but with a deep connection to the peace and growth of the ancient community and the people.

“We Nigerians always try to appear awake, forgetting that in foreign countries, which we are quick to compare ourselves with, don’t joke with their culture and tradition,” Fadairo said.

“We all saw what happened during the death of Queen Elizabeth in England and the ascension of the throne by King Charles. We all know this, but sentiments won’t allow us.

“Even in Spain we do see how they cherish their traditional festivals, so what is wrong with us trying to bury what has been with us and handed over to us by our forefathers?”