Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State have declared Tuesday, August 20, 2024, as a work-free day in honor of the Isese Day celebration. This holiday recognizes the significance of the Isese Festival, a cultural event deeply rooted in the Yoruba tradition.
The announcement by the Lagos State Government was made official through a circular issued by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, referencing the governor’s support for traditional institutions.
The circular with Ref. No: CIR/HOS/124/Vol.1/66 stated: “It is hereby notified for general information that this Year’s Isese Day Celebration will hold on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.”
The notice emphasized that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s decision to declare the public holiday aligns with his commitment to preserving indigenous culture and promoting Yoruba heritage.
Similarly, in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun also declared today as a public holiday. According to his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the decision is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to foster religious inclusivity.
“Ogun State remains an exemplary federating unit with enviable levels of religious cohesion and harmony, even in the face of diversity,” Akinmade noted. He further urged traditional worshippers to celebrate peacefully and with respect for other religions.
The Isese Festival is an annual celebration of Yoruba traditional spirituality, honoring the religious customs and practices passed down through generations. The event is marked in the southwestern states of Nigeria, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, and parts of Kwara and Kogi States.
Last year, four South-Western states—Lagos, Oyo, Osun, and Ogun—jointly agreed to mark August 20 every year as Isese Day. The recognition of this day, according to a statement released by Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu last August, serves as an opportunity to preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
