Commercial activities at Agbalata International Market in Badagry were brought to a halt on Thursday as the Lagos State Government commenced burial rites for the late Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi I. The respected traditional ruler passed away on January 12, prompting a state supported programme to honour his life and legacy within the Badagry community.
The government had earlier announced a ten day lineup of events to mark the burial, scheduled to run from April 23 to May 6. The Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu Hundeyin, who also serves as the chairperson of the Central Planning Committee, disclosed the plans during a media briefing held in Badagry on April 18. She reiterated the commitment of the state government under Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu to give the late monarch a befitting farewell.
In preparation for the rites, a town crier moved across various quarters and marketplaces on Wednesday, informing residents and traders about the commencement of ceremonies and directing the temporary closure of Agbalata Market. Observations on Thursday confirmed that shops and stalls remained locked, leaving the usually vibrant market deserted.
Chief Tunde Giro, the Depegan of Badagry, explained that the closure would be brief and limited to important ceremonial periods. He assured traders that the market would reopen on Friday after the initial rites, noting its economic importance to Badagry, Lagos, and neighboring regions.
Some traders expressed frustration due to lack of prior information, especially those who travelled long distances. Meanwhile, traditional performances, including Ajogan dance displays, have begun across the eight quarters of Badagry, alongside prayers from Christian, Muslim, and traditional worshippers.
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