BREAKING: Aree of Iree land, Oba Muritala, Orders Traders To Move From 'Poly Junction' To 'Oja Oba'

Oja Oba, Iree, Osun State.

By Omololu Ajayi, Zainab Adeyemi, Fathia Abdulsalam

The King of Iree land, Osun State, Oba Muritala Oyelakin Ayekun has announced that no traders should display their goods at Poly Junction except on market days, which takes place once every five days. He said all traders must now sell at Oja Oba, the main market located in front of the king’s palace.

During an interview with NEB correspondents on Wednesday, Chief Alhaji Odegboyega Bolodeoku, the Babaloja of Iree land explained that the decision was made because of the danger traders and buyers face at Poly Junction.

Babaloja of Iree, Alhaji Gboyega.

According to him, the junction was said to be a busy highway used by drivers coming from Ikirun and Ila Orangun, and many of them drive at high speed which has caused several accidents in the past, leading to the loss of lives in the community.

Also, the Chief James Bankole (Jagun of Iree land) the new rule is meant to protect traders and buyers from any accident of any kind. He noted that the king values the safety of his people and wants to prevent more deaths caused by road accident.

Jagun of Iree Land, Chief James Bankole.

While some traders raised concerns, noting that moving to Oja Oba might affect their sales, others agreed that safety is more important than profit. A few buyers also said they believe the decision will make the town more organized.

According to Madam Sulaimon Kehinde who is a pepper seller at the market, she said "the king's move is good. I believe that it is for the good and progress of the town. I have started informing my customers about my new market place since last month."

Also, Iya-afin Kemisola a trader at the market described that "the king's decision is the best. I also confirmed it that the king has made an announcement since last month that they are going to start selling their goods at new market."

The chiefs, however, added that security officers (Amotekun) would be present to make sure the new order is followed. "They believe moving the market away from Poly Junction will not only save lives but also reduce traffic problems in the area," they chiefs said.