Akure, the Ondo State capital, came to a standstill on Thursday, August 14, 2025, as markets, stalls, and shops across the city shut down for the annual Aheregbe Festival.

The directive, issued by the Palace of the Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, is part of a long-standing tradition to honour one of the kingdom’s most important cultural celebrations.

According to a statement signed by Adeyeye Michael, Chief Press Secretary to the Deji, all commercial activities are suspended for the day to allow residents and visitors to fully partake in the festivities. The palace urged traders and shop owners to comply, emphasizing that the festival holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Akure people.

However, pharmacies and patent medicine stores have been exempted from the closure due to the essential nature of healthcare services.

The palace also assured residents that while business operations are halted, human and vehicular movement would remain unaffected, with non-commercial activities continuing as usual.

The Aheregbe Festival attracts participants from far and wide, celebrating the heritage, unity, and identity of the Akure Kingdom. The palace called on everyone to respect and support the smooth hosting of this year’s edition.