Olubadan: Ibadan markets closed as Mapo Hall gets set for Ladoja’s coronation

Major markets across Ibadan, Oyo State capital, have shut down as traders honour the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, taking place today. Our correspondent who visited Dugbe, Agbeni and Orita Merin Mapo markets observed that traders have closed their shops and suspended commercial activities to honour the […]

Major markets across Ibadan, Oyo State capital, have shut down as traders honour the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, taking place today.

Our correspondent who visited Dugbe, Agbeni and Orita Merin Mapo markets observed that traders have closed their shops and suspended commercial activities to honour the event.

Except for liquor sellers selling alcoholic drinks to commercial motorcyclists, popularly known ad Okada riders, around the markets, major economic activities were suspended.

It was also gathered that similar scenario played out at Agodi gate, Oje, Bere and Bodija markets.

Daily Trust learnt that the development followed a directive by the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Asiwaju Yekeen Abass, who said the closure would serve as a mark of respect for the new monarch.

He explained that all markets across the eleven local government areas of Ibadanland, including those in the city centre and surrounding areas, will suspend trading activities for the day.

He urged all traders to attend the coronation ceremony at Mapo Hall, stressing the importance of showing support and reverence for the new traditional ruler.

He also extended birthday wishes to Oba Ladoja, wishing him many happy returns and continued good health.

Meanwhile, all is set for the historic event taking place at Mapo Hall, the colonial – styled Ibadan city hall on top of Mapo Hill on Oyo state capital.

Mapo Hall was commissioned by Captain Ross in 1929 during the colonial era.

Over the years, the hall had played host to major political and social events in the city, shaping the socio-political direction of Nigeria in general.

The hall hosts a mini museum, where the relics of the chains used to hold tax evaders in the colonial era are hung.

There are also pictures of all Olubadan (Kings) that have reigned in Ibadan.

Mapo Hill, the site of the hall, is one of the oldest parts of Ibadan city, a high density area occupied mainly by the indigenes of the town.

Ladoja’s coronation is expected to attract dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ministers, governors, and other prominent guests.

Among dignitaries on ground at Mapo Hall are two former governors of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun.