Akure to Observe Total Market Shutdown for Annual Aheregbe Festival

Residents of Akure, the Ondo State capital and neighbouring communities will today witness a complete closure of all markets, shops and trading activities as part of the annual Aheregbe Festival.

The directive was issued by the Palace of the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, in a statement signed by the monarch’s Chief Press Secretary, Michael Adeyeye.

According to the palace, the tradition, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Akure people, mandates a full suspension of commercial activities within the city and its environs on the festival day.

“The Palace of His Majesty, the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, wishes to notify residents that in line with longstanding customs, all markets, stalls, and shops in Akure will remain closed on Thursday, August 14, 2025. No trading, selling, or shop openings will be permitted under any circumstance” the statement read.

The Aheregbe Festival, deeply rooted in the customs of the Akure people, is observed annually to honor cultural values and preserve the kingdom’s rich traditions.