Traders in major markets in Ibadanland, on Friday, defied the directive of Babaloja General of Oyo State, Yekeen Abass, to close all the markets for seven hours in honour of the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The major markets, where traders defied the order, include Ojoo, Bodija, Oje and many others.
The PUNCH reports that all markets in Ibadanland were ordered closed on Thursday, as the late Olakulehin is buried this morning (Friday).
Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, died on July 7, 2025, two days after his 90th birthday. He will be buried today, August 8, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.
Abass, in a statement on Thursday, directed that “all markets be shut from 5 am to 12 noon on Friday, to honour the departed monarch.
“The closure was to pay last respects to the revered traditional ruler who diligently served the country, the state and, most importantly, Ibadanland,” Babaloja stated.
As of press time, buying and selling are still ongoing at those markets while the burial programme is yet to commence at St Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.
Details later.
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