The Ondo State Government has issued a countermand to Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, cautioning him against public conflict. This comes after the monarch’s decree for market and shop closures during the Aheregbe Festival, a move the government has deemed unlawful.
Oba Aladetoyinbo had previously declared a suspension of all business operations for the period of the festival, with an exception for pharmacies and patent medicine stores.
However, the state’s Information and Orientation Commissioner, Bamidele Olateju, in a recent declaration, stated that any decision to close markets anywhere in the state must have the governor’s approval.
Olateju argued that Oba Aladetoyinbo’s directive was in contravention of a standing government order and infringed on the rights of Akure residents to earn their livelihood. She insisted that even if there was a request for a closure, it would only be permitted in the Oba’s Market (?ja ?ba) in Akure.
She implored the revered Deji of Akure to respect the government’s decisions and avoid actions likely to cause inconvenience or economic hardship to the people of Akure. She stressed the importance of maintaining the harmonious relationship between the Deji’s esteemed office and the state government.
Olateju further urged Akure residents to proceed with their daily activities, including on the day of the Aheregbe festival. She warned against any attempts to forcefully close markets or shops and stated that anyone disregarding this directive would face the wrath of the government. She appealed for lawfulness and freedom in pursuit of happiness.
SOURCE: The Nation
IMAGE: DailyTrust
