Igbogbo Kingdom Unites As Traders, Artisans Chart New Course Ahead Of Igbogbo Day
Igbogbo Kingdom Unites as Traders, Artisans Chart New Course Ahead Of Igbogbo Day
By Emmanuel Daniji
The ancient town of Igbogbo came to a purposeful standstill on Monday, 10th November 2025, as the Palace of the Adeboruwa Kingdom hosted a pivotal gathering that drew together the heartbeat of the local economy — market leaders, artisans, and stakeholders from across the Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA. It was a day marked by unity, resolve, and a collective commitment to shaping the future of the kingdom’s commercial landscape.
In an unprecedented show of solidarity, shops across the entire kingdom were closed, not out of compulsion but as an intentional investment in the community’s future. The directive ensured that every trader, craftsman, and market representative was physically present at the palace for what many described as one of the most important strategic sessions ahead of this year’s Igbogbo Day celebration.
The event, jointly organized by the Executive Market Committee and the Adeboruwa-in-Council, began on a deeply symbolic note with the presence of the Oba of Igbogbo Kingdom. His royal address reinforced the importance of collaboration and collective responsibility, setting a tone that resonated throughout the gathering.
Adding her voice to the agenda for progress, the Iyaloja General of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA, Chief (Mrs.) Ln. Alhaja Ashake Modinat Adenike Shonubi-Wahab, outlined a clear vision anchored on preserving the kingdom’s cultural heritage, advancing market infrastructure, and prioritizing the welfare of traders. Her message was both a rallying call and a roadmap for sustainable development within the local trading ecosystem.
One of the most engaging moments of the day came when traders and artisans — from carpenters and tailors to hairdressers and vulcanizers — were invited to air their concerns. A recurring and troubling issue was highlighted: the intimidation of traders by individuals falsely claiming indigene status, a practice many said was undermining peace and business growth within the community.
Responding firmly, the Iyaloja General assured that such acts would no longer be tolerated and pledged swift action to eliminate intimidation in all forms. She urged traders to work in unity, actively participate in their respective market associations, and remain engaged to avoid missing out on critical updates or opportunities.
Her message was particularly directed at non-indigenous traders, including the Igbo and Hausa business communities. She encouraged them to collaborate closely with their ethnic representatives on the market committee, noting that the structure was deliberately designed to ensure that every concern reaches the executive body quickly and is resolved effectively.
A major highlight of the meeting was the formal introduction of the newly appointed Iyaloja and Baba Oloja of Igbogbo Kingdom, presented by Chief Tajudeen Alade Onasanya, the Odofin of Igbogbo Kingdom. The Iyaloja General urged all traders to accord the new leaders their full respect and cooperation, stressing that unity and collective support are essential for building a stronger, more organized commercial environment.
The Adeboruwa-in-Council also reiterated the palace’s role as the final arbiter on matters affecting the community. They encouraged traders to escalate unresolved issues through the proper channels, assuring them that the palace remains open and committed to initiatives that enhance the prosperity of the entire kingdom.
As preparations for Igbogbo Day intensify, Monday’s gathering has left residents with a renewed sense of hope and direction. The message from the palace is unmistakable: Igbogbo is entering a new phase — one defined by collaboration, cultural pride, and a commitment to tangible progress.
The unity displayed during the meeting signals a promising future. With market leaders, traders, artisans, and traditional authorities now aligned, the foundation has been laid for a more prosperous, organized, and forward-moving Igbogbo Kingdom a future the community is determined to build together.
