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By Our Reporter
Emure-Ekiti | July 21, 2025
The ancient town of Emure-Ekiti came alive with songs of joy, cultural displays, and prayers of gratitude on Monday, as jubilant market women and traders trooped out in large numbers to celebrate the relocation of the historic Idamudu Market to its original traditional site — a move widely described as a restoration of cultural heritage and economic identity.
The decision, which was formally announced by the traditional ruler of the town, His Royal Majesty, Oba James Babatunde Ajiboye, the Elemure of Emure Kingdom, has been met with overwhelming applause from women leaders, market unions and community stakeholders who hailed it as timely, symbolic and visionary.
Speaking at the brief but symbolic gathering held at the palace courtyard, Oba Ajiboye described the return of the market to its ancestral base as a reconnection with Emure’s historical roots, stressing the deep spiritual and cultural significance of Idamudu Market to the palace and the Emure Kingdom at large.
“In the olden days, the full stretch of Idamudu Market was visible right from within the palace. It was not only a commercial hub, but a place of communal gathering, royal oversight, and cultural expression. Today, we have restored that sacred connection between the crown and the market,” the monarch declared.
HRM Oba Ajiboye explained that the decision was made after extensive consultation with the traditional council, market leaders, elders, and concerned stakeholders who all agreed on the need to preserve the town’s historical layout and cultural institutions.
The market women, many of whom danced in colourful attire and waved palm fronds as a sign of gratitude, could barely contain their excitement. They described the relocation as a long-awaited blessing that will bring increased patronage, improved security, and renewed cultural pride to the people of Emure.
“We are very happy today. Our ancestors are surely smiling. The market is now back where it belongs and we thank Kabiyesi for this bold and fatherly decision,” said Chief (Mrs.) Asao – Iyaloja Obada, one of the leaders of the market women’s association.
Another trader, Mrs. Folasade, noted that the original market location provided better access for customers and enhanced safety compared to the previous temporary site. “We are ready to cooperate with the palace and maintain peace and cleanliness in the new space,” she added.
In a further move to bolster the local economy and foster inclusivity, HRM Oba Ajiboye also announced the immediate commencement of an evening market initiative, to be known as ‘Oja Oba’ (King’s Market), which will hold daily in the evenings around the central mosque and the palace axis.
The Oja Oba, according to the monarch, will operate under structured guidelines and be powered by solar street lighting, ensuring a safe and well-lit environment for evening trade and social interaction.
“This will create more business opportunities for petty traders, food vendors, and artisans who are more active in the evenings. It will also improve night-time economic activity and make Emure more lively, especially around the palace corridor,” Kabiyesi said.
The Elemure further urged market women and community members to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to communal growth, adding that the palace remains open to suggestions and innovations that promote unity and prosperity in the kingdom.
The historic relocation of Idamudu Market and the launch of the Oja Oba evening market represent a strategic step toward reviving indigenous economic structures, preserving Emure’s royal heritage, and strengthening community-driven commerce.
As drums of celebration echoed through the palace walls and the surrounding streets, many residents described the day as “a new dawn for Emure Kingdom”, and a testament to the responsive and culturally conscious leadership of HRM Oba James Babatunde Ajiboye.
