On Friday, September 26, 2025, Rasidi Ladoja was installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan.1 The ceremony, which took place at Mapo Hall, was a massive event with a huge turnout, leading to a significant economic opportunity for vendors.
Despite official security restrictions and a warning from the police against unauthorized movement and processions, vendors found a way to “cash in” on the event.2 Security agencies had put in place extensive measures, including traffic restrictions and route closures around Mapo Hall, but many vendors arrived as early as 6:30 a.m. to set up their wares and beat the security.
How Vendors Defied Security and Made Sales:
- Early Arrival: Petty traders arrived hours before the official start of the ceremony to secure spots close to the venue, selling items before the major security clampdown.
- Variety of Wares: Vendors sold a wide range of goods to meet the demand of the large crowd. These included food, snacks, soft drinks, and ceremonial items like T-shirts, key holders, and frames with the new Olubadan’s picture.
- Profiting from the Demand: The high demand allowed some vendors to increase their prices slightly. For example, a soft drink seller said she added a small extra cost to account for the ice blocks she needed to keep her drinks cold.
- Traditional Services: Besides traders, traditional drummers also made money by singing praises for dignitaries as they entered the venue in exchange for a token.
The event, which brought together a large crowd of residents and dignitaries, provided a carnival-like atmosphere that vendors were able to leverage for quick profits, showing that even strict security measures cannot always stop the flow of commerce and celebration.
