By Ayodele Oni
The office of Deji of Akure has announced that there will be closure of markets and shops in Akure, Ondo state capital, on Tuesday.
A statement on Monday by Adeyeye Michael, Chief Press Secretary to the Deji of Akure, said markets and shops will not open in the ancient city because of the celebration of Aheregbe festival.
Adeyeye said: “The Palace of the Deji & Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom wishes to notify the residents of Akure and its environs that all Markets and Shops in Akure will be shut on Tuesday 27th August, 2024.
“The closure is an integral part of the requirement in observing the age-long tradition of the annual Aheregbe Festival.
“Sequel to this, there shall be no opening of markets, trading or opening of shops under any guise during the festival.
“Residents, market women and shop owners are kindly enjoined to comply with this directive.
“However, in view of the importance attached to the health sector, only pharmacy shops are exempted from closure during the festival
“Notwithstanding, the festival will not in any way restrict both human and vehicular movement.”
During the celebration, the Akure monarch will be in seclusion during which he will not receive visitors.
There have been public outcry against the annual closure of markets in Akure with people maintaining that Akure, with the status of a state capital should be free from any form of restriction which may prevent residents from carrying out their daily commercial activities.
In previous years, the celebration of the festival had led to violent clashes following attempts by palace guards to extend the market closure to suburb communities such as Isinkan, Isolo with Akure.
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