Why Akesan is a historical market of heroic pedigree with a linkage of relevance to all markets in Yoruba land ….. Alaafin’s Queen Consort
Since pre colonial era, markets became mainstay of the Yoruba
community as majority were farmers who could not eat their produce
alone and had to exchange some for other commodities and services. And
with the introduction of money into the economy and creation of
permanent sites for marketing activities, the markets became more
integral to every community. In this special report, BODE DUROJAIYE, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom and Superior Head of Yorubaland, explores the cultural, economic and religious significances of Akesan market [Chief of all markets in Yorubaland and yesterday’s visit to the Palace by market men and women from the ancient market.
His report.
The markets were not only the economic sustenance tools but they
became the centre for information dissemination, town meetings,
religious and political gatherings as well as social engagements.
Also, at this period, the periodic markets were sited very near the
Palace, which is the seat of power, or in front of it and this act is
said to be very symbolic in the Yoruba community to the extent that
every palace in Yoruba town has a market near it called Oja Oba
meaning the king’s market.
This is based on popular belief that the king is the overseer of the
economic activities of his people and consequently the market which is
the mainstay of the ancient town.
However, An icon among the markets in Yorubaland is the bustling
Akesan market known as Akesan Baale Oja (the king of all markets in
Yorubaland) and which was established a few metres away from the Alaafin`s palace.
In her address , Wife of the Alaafin, Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade said the market institution has been an integral part of the Yoruba community and custom since time immemorial; even before the advent of money, when trading was done through barter and goods were sold on the path to the farm or in front of houses.
“” This was because there were no spaces set aside for marketing activities aside pathways and other sites that are thoroughfare for the people in the settlements.
“”Since this period, markets became mainstay of the Yoruba community as majority were farmers who could not eat their produce alone and had to exchange some for other commodities and services.
“”The markets were not only the economic sustenance tools but they became the centre for information dissemination, town meetings, religious and political gatherings as well as social engagements””.
Ayaba Owoade who pointed out the imperative roles that markets play in a community noted that they act as hubs for local economic development, social interaction, and access to fresh, local goods, offer low-cost, low-risk retail space, acting as incubators for small-scale entrepreneurs, startups, and local artisans.
“” They generate direct employment and help keep money within the local economy.
Historically our towns and cities grew up around markets, which served as our original civic centers.They are very reassuring places, because they give us a sense of responsibility for our own health, as people are experimenting, and reinventing what it means to have a good life””.
An icon among the markets in Yorubaland, Alaafin’s Queen Consort noted, is the bustling Akesan market known as “Akesan Baale Oja” (the king of all markets in Yorubaland) and which was established a few metres away from the Alaafin`s palace.
“” Akesan market embraces customers and visitors in an atmosphere which is traditionally energised and authentic yet reminiscent of today`s society””.
While lauding the elated market men and women for their steadfastness, sense of commitment and loyalty to their town and the Alaafin , Ayaba Owoade extolled the virtue of the Iyaloja-General of Oyo Kingdom, Alhaji Chief Peju Bakare thus , “”you are like a merchant’s ships; from afar you bring your sustenance. You rise while it is still nighttime, and gives food to your people and household. You consider a field and buys it; from the fruit of your handiwork, you plant a vineyard. You gird your loins with might and strengthens her arms. No evil.shall befall you . Grace and glory shall.abide with you all the days of your life. We appreciate your efforts, worth and selfless disposition””.
Responding the Iyaloja- General, Chief Mrs Bakare who described the Alaafin as a “” proactive, visionary, resilient passionate and peace loving monarch pledged their continued support and loyalty to him and also prayed the his long life, good health, divine guidance and development of Oyo Kingdom, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.