Ijebu Ode Markets Reopen After Royal Mourning
Local Government Denies Extended Closure Rumors
Markets in Ijebu Ode are set to resume full operations tomorrow, Monday, July 21st, 2025, following a period of closure in honor of the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The decision aims to balance respect for tradition with the economic well-being of traders.
Markets to Resume Business Monday
Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman, **Dare Alebiosu**, announced that major marketplaces, including Ita Osu, Ita Ale, and Oke Aje, will reopen for business on Monday. The closure began last Monday as a mark of respect for the paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
In a statement released on Sunday, **Alebiosu** confirmed the reopening date, stating it follows consultations with relevant traditional authorities. The local government expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation and patience during this sensitive time.
Denial of Prolonged Closure
**Alebiosu** explicitly refuted claims that the markets were directed to remain shut for 75 days, labeling such reports as entirely false. The reopening is intended to prevent further economic hardship for the community.
“Following the peaceful transition of our highly revered royal father, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona GCON, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, the leadership of Ijebu Ode Local Government, in consultation with relevant traditional authorities, respectfully observed the customary mourning period in honour of the Orisa of Ijebuland.
“We wish to inform the general public, traders, and market stakeholders that all major markets within Ijebu Ode, including Ita Ale, Ita Osu, and Oke Aje, will officially reopen for full business operations on Monday, 21st July 2025.
“This decision was made to strike a balance between honouring our departed king and ensuring that our people do not continue to suffer undue economic hardship.
“We appreciate the cooperation, patience, and respect shown by all during this sensitive time.
“Let it be noted that no directive was ever issued to shut down markets for 75 days, and such reports are completely false.
“We remain committed to maintaining order, tradition, and the welfare of all Ijebu sons and daughters.”
—Dare Alebiosu, Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government
The reopening aligns with a broader trend of economic normalization after periods of public mourning. For instance, in Nigeria, significant public events often involve temporary closures of commercial activities, impacting daily earnings for many vendors.
