Shops, Markets Closed Ahead Of Awujale’s Funeral

Commercial activities in Ijebu-Ode, as well as the adjourning towns were at the lowest ebb on Monday, in honour of the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who was expected to be interred by 4p.m. on Monday.

Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat confirmed that the remains of the late Awujale would be committed to mother earth by 4 pm on Monday, according to Islamic rites.

Hamzat disclosed that the funeral rite was in tandem with the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law 2021 as amended.

A statement issued on Monday by the Chairman of Ijebu Ode local government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu said the closure of commercial activities was in line with the cultural traditions of the town, which aimed at allowing all sons and daughters of Ijebuland “to mourn this monumental loss” of the monarch, who is regarded as the deity of their land.

Meanwhile, a visit by our correspondent to the Awujale’s palace, located Ita-Ale area of Ijebu-Ode metropolis, revealed that the Palace has been closed, while combined security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army were on stand-by to maintain law and order.

Also, a state government delegation led by the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salak-Oyedele was among dignitaries who came to commiserate with the Adetona family on the passage of the monarch.

The late Oba Adetona will be interred at his private residence located at the Ogbagba Court in Igbeba axis of Ijebu-Ode town.

The deputy governor was however, received by the family of late Oba Adetona shortly after signing the condolence register.

LEADERSHIP, however, observed a display of staff of office at the deceased monarch’s private residence, most of which were laced with insignia of substantial number of Ijebu monarchs from different towns aimed at paying their last respect to Oba Adetona.