Streets in Ilesa town are deserted and businesses have been under lock and key as traditionalists priests observe sacred rituals for the late Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran.
Newsmen observed that the town has remained deserted and under lockdown following a sit-at-home order issued by the traditional priests to honour the monarch.
The curfew (Oro) which started at 10:00 pm on Monday, September 16 and lasted until 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 17, was imposed to ensure that the traditional rites of passage for the late king were performed in secrecy, in accordance with the tradition.
Shops, markets and other businesses were shut down, while residents stayed indoors throughout the duration the curfew.
The Owa-in-Council had earlier declared a three-day market closure and a seven-day curfew in honor of Oba Aromolaran immediately after his passing.
Recalled that Oba Aromolaran who reigned for 42 years died on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.
His death was not however made public until Thursday, September 12, 2024 by Chief Olayinka Fasuyi, the Asiwaju of Ijesaland.