Olufon Urges Govt To Modernise Historic Obada Market
The Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Oba Peter Oluwole Akinyooye, has appealed to government at all levels to transform the town’s 100-year-old ‘Obada Market’ into a modern, international-standard commercial hub capable of attracting greater investments and boosting the local economy.
The monarch made the appeal on Sunday at the grand finale of the three-day centenary celebration of the market held at the Olufon’s Palace Square.
Oba Akinyooye described ‘Obada Market’ as an enduring symbol of enterprise and prosperity and one of the largest agriculture and livestock markets in Osun State.
Giving a historical account of the market, the traditional ruler said Obada Market has existed for centuries as a major centre of commerce and social interaction, but was relocated to its current location by Late Oba Bankẹ́ẹ̀sà Atanda Akinyooye I and officially received government recognition in 1926.
Addressing participants at the packed palace square filled with traditional rulers, government officials, traders, business moguls, and indigenes from across Nigeria, Oba Akinyooye said, “Obada Market is not merely a marketplace; it is a living legacy of commerce, culture and communal strength whose glorious history will continue to inspire generations yet unborn.”
The three-day centenary celebration, which ran from Friday to Sunday, kicked off with the presentation of Awards of Excellence to distinguished personalities, families, and compounds that have contributed immensely to the growth of Obada Market over the decades.
The award session was followed by cultural displays and goodwill messages commending the foresight of the market’s founding fathers and the resilience of traders who have sustained it through generations.
READ ALSO
•Insecurity: Traditional Rulers Will Play Major Role In Safeguarding Osun – Salaam
•You Cannot Kill Your Way To Governorship — Gov Adeleke To Osun APC
On Saturday, market exhibitions showcasing Ifon-Osun’s rich commercial heritage and economic opportunities were held, where traders, artisans and entrepreneurs displayed products and services, while visitors were entertained with traditional dances and musical renditions reflecting the cultural heritage of Orolu Kingdom.
During the grand finale, honorary chieftaincy titles were conferred on Otunba (Engr.) Oluwole Kolawole and Dr Oluwatoyin Kolawole as Gbọ́bagùntẹ́ and Yeye Gbọ́bagùntẹ́ of Ifon-Osun, Orolu Kingdom.
Chief (Pastor) Sola Akande and Chief (Dcns) Funmilayo Akande received the prestigious titles of Aarẹ and Yeye Aarẹ Jagunmólú of Ifon-Osun, while Chief (Mrs.) Hamzat Jelilat was installed as the Erelú of Ifon-Osun, Orolu Kingdom.
The monarch expressed profound appreciation to all sons and daughters of Ifon-Osun, market men and women, development associations, government agencies and friends of the community whose support made the centenary a success.
He urged everyone to continue upholding the values of unity, peace and progress that have sustained both the market and the community.
The celebration was further enlivened with special prayers for peace and prosperity, more cultural displays, entertainment by musicians, and other activities that kept guests in high spirits throughout the three days.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
