Akure goes to sleep as monarch begins leave

• Beating of drums banned

• Roads leading to palace closed

The town of Akure, the capital city of Ondo State, will go to sleep from September 24 to 30 as the traditional ruler of the town, the Deji of Akure, begins his annual leave.

The palace has prohibited drumming in Akure town for seven days due to the annual leave of Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.

This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deji of Akure, Mr Michael Adeyeye, on Tuesday in Akure.

According to the statement, the annual leave is expected to last for a period of seven days, from Tuesday, Sept.24 till Monday, Sept.30.

“The royal father will use the period of the annual leave to pray for peace, prosperity and progress of Akure Kingdom, Ondo State, and the country at large.

“It is pertinent to notify the general public and residents of Akure that beating of drum under any guise is prohibited during this period.

“Also, the road leading to Deji’s Palace will be closed to commuters during the period. Road users are therefore enjoined to make use of the adjoining routes,” the statement read.

It added that in line with customs and tradition of Akure, only a section of the Oja Oba market would be closed for the Ulefunta period.

The statement advised residents of Akure “to comply with the directives as they go about their lawful duties and also pray for the good of the land.” (NAN)