Residents of Akure, the Ondo State capital, will face restrictions on drumming, movement and trading around the Deji’s Palace as the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Land, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, CFR, begins his annual Ulefunta traditional leave.
The seven-day traditional observance will commence on Wednesday, September 16, and end on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the monarch’s Chief Press Secretary, Adeyeye Michael.
As part of the traditional rites, the beating of drums has been prohibited throughout Akure main town for the duration of the monarch’s seclusion.
The palace also announced the closure of all roads leading to the Deji’s Palace during the period, directing motorists and other road users to use adjoining routes.
Markets, shops and stalls located around the palace will equally remain shut throughout the seven-day observance.
The palace urged residents to comply with the directives while continuing with their lawful activities without fear, explaining that the traditional leave would provide the monarch an opportunity to pray and seek peace and prosperity for Akure, Ondo State and Nigeria.
The annual Ulefunta leave is a traditional period during which the Deji withdraws from public activities as part of the rites associated with the traditional institution.
The palace called for cooperation from residents throughout the period, ending the notice with the traditional Akure expression, “Akure a gbe a ooo.”