Ibadan Markets to Shut Down Friday for Olubadan Coronation

Markets across Ibadan will be closed on Friday, September 26, 2025, as traders honour the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja.

The decision was announced by the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Asiwaju Yekeen Abass, on behalf of market leaders, zonal executives, and the trading community.

He explained that the closure is a mark of respect for the new monarch and a way to allow traders to participate in the historic event.

“All markets in the 11 local government areas that make up Ibadan, both within the city and its outskirts, are to remain shut for the coronation.

Traders are also encouraged to attend the ceremony at Mapo Hall,” Abass said.

The Oyo State Government has also unveiled traffic management plans to ensure a smooth ceremony. Roads leading to Mapo Hall will be restricted from 7:00 a.m. on the day of the coronation, with diversions and designated parking spaces provided to ease movement around the venue.

Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja was confirmed as the Olubadan-designate on August 21, following the approval of Governor Seyi Makinde. He succeeds the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, who passed away earlier in the year.

The coronation, expected to draw dignitaries, cultural groups, and residents from across Nigeria, marks a new chapter for Ibadan.

The market shutdown, according to leaders, is both a symbolic gesture of unity and a recognition of the Olubadan stool as a revered institution in Yoruba tradition.