DistantNews
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Economy & Trade

Badagry market shuts as Akran burial rites begin

From The Punch · (5h ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Commercial activities at Badagry's Agbalata International Market were halted on Thursday as burial rites for the late Akran, Oba Aholu Menu-Toyi I, commenced.
  • The Lagos State Government has announced a 10-day burial program for the traditional ruler, running from April 23 to May 6.
  • While some traders expressed frustration over the lack of prior notice, the market is expected to reopen on Friday after initial rites, with closures only during special ceremonies.

Badagry's vibrant Agbalata International Market fell silent on Thursday as the community began the solemn burial rites for its revered traditional ruler, the late Akran, Oba Aholu Menu-Toyi I. The closure of this vital economic hub, a significant market serving not only Badagry and Lagos but also other parts of the country, underscores the deep respect and importance accorded to the monarch's passing.

The Lagos State Government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is committed to honouring the Akran befittingly.

— Mrs Abimbola Salu-HundeyinSecretary to the State Government and Chair of the Central Planning Committee on the burial program.

The Lagos State Government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is orchestrating a comprehensive 10-day program to honor the late ruler's life and legacy, with ceremonies scheduled from April 23 to May 6. This state-backed initiative reflects the cultural significance of the Akran's position within the Badagry traditional system.

While the traditional ruler's passing is being honored with solemn rites, including 'Ajogan' dance parades and interfaith prayers, the market closure has caused inconvenience for some traders. Joseph Edwin, a fish trader from Mile 12, voiced frustration, having traveled to Badagry without prior notice of the market's shutdown. He emphasized the need for broader announcements through radio and television to ensure wider public awareness beyond just those within the market vicinity.

The market will only close during special rites, considering its importance to Badagry, Lagos and other parts of the country.

— Chief Tunde GiroThe ‘Depegan’ of Badagry on the temporary closure of Agbalata Market during burial rites.

Despite these disruptions, Chief Tunde Giro, the ‘Depegan’ of Badagry, assured that the market would resume operations on Friday following the initial rites. He clarified that closures would be limited to specific, special ceremonies, acknowledging the market's crucial role in the local economy. The ongoing ceremonies, encompassing Christian, Muslim, and traditional worship, highlight the community's collective effort to bid a fitting farewell to their monarch.

Authorities should also announce on radio and television so more people are informed, not just traders within the market.

— Joseph EdwinA fish trader from Mile 12 expressing frustration over the lack of prior notice for the market closure.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog