Commercial activities at Agbalata International Market in Badagry were suspended on Thursday as Lagos State commenced a 10-day burial programme for the late Akran, Aholu Menu-Toyi I, who died on January 12. The Lagos government, through Secretary to the State Government Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, confirmed the burial rites would run from April 23 to May 6, describing the programme as a befitting tribute under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's administration. Salu-Hundeyin, who doubles as chair of the Central Planning Committee, made the announcement during a media briefing in Badagry on April 18. A town crier had earlier visited market areas and community quarters on Wednesday to notify residents of the closure and the start of traditional rites. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observed that the market remained shut throughout Thursday, with stalls locked and no trading activity in the usually busy commercial hub. Chief Tunde Giro, the 'Depegan' of Badagry, confirmed the market would reopen on Friday, noting closures were limited to specific ceremonial days due to the market's economic significance. Some traders, however, arrived unaware of the shutdown. Mr Joseph Edwin, a fish trader from Mile 12, said he had no prior information and urged authorities to use radio and television to reach a wider audience. Burial rites officially began at the Akran's palace, accompanied by 'Ajogan' dance processions across Badagry's eight quarters. Christian, Muslim and traditional religious groups are also holding prayer sessions for the late monarch as the ceremonies proceed.
The closure of Agbalata Market for select days during the burial rites exposes a gap in public notification, as traders like Joseph Edwin travelled from distant areas without warning. Relying solely on town criers limits reach in a modern, mobile economy where many participants operate beyond immediate earshot. If the state insists on traditional protocols, it must pair them with mass communication tools to avoid economic disruption. The situation shows that heritage and commerce can clash when planning overlooks inclusivity.
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