Deji Of Akure Begins Annual Leave

The new Chairman of the Council of Obas in Ondo state, the Deji of Akure, HRM. Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, began his traditional ULEFUNTA annual leave on Sunday, September 19, 2021. 

On Friday in Akure, the Chief Press Secretary to the traditional ruler, Mr Micheal Adeyeye made the statement known to pressmen. 

Adeyeye noted that the annual leave of the Deji of Akure will last for a period of seven days, beginning from September 19 to 25.

According to Adeyeye: “The annual leave is a period when the Deji of Akure goes into seclusion to take a rest and also use the period to pray for peace and prosperity of the land.”

However, he added that there will be no beating of drums within Akure under any impression throughout the seven-day period.

“It is significant to inform the general public and residents of Akure that beating of drums within the Akure Kingdom under any pretence is prohibited throughout the seven days of the annual leave.”

Adeyeye also said the road leading to Deji’s Palace will be closed to commuters, markets, shops and stalls around Deji’s Palace will similarly be closed during the period, except for shops, stalls and markets that are not around the Deji’s Palace.

“All road users are, hence, urged to make use of all connecting routes during this period,” he said.

The Chief Press Secretary then urged inhabitants to comply with the directives, while going about their rightful duties.

Furthermore, he added that the king will not receive any visitors nor attend any task throughout the time of the seven-day leave, in line with tradition.

The Ulefunta Festival is celebrated every year and has a historical and cultural significance. The first is the period that the Deji goes into seclusion. 

According to tradition, when the Deji comes out of seclusion after seven days, there is going to be a celebration for the whole town, as masquerades and all sons and daughters of Akure are required to come and pay the Deji his traditional Ulefunta homage after seclusion.