The governments of Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and Ogun states have declared Tuesday, August 20th, 2024, as a public holiday in honor of the Isese Day celebration. This day is dedicated to traditional religion adherents in Yorubaland to hold various festivals celebrating their deities, including Eyo, Igogo, Ojude Oba, Olojo, Oro, Sango, Egungun, Ogun, and Oya.
The tradition of observing Isese Day was initiated in Oyo State by Governor Seyi Makinde in 2023, who declared August 20th a public holiday each year to commemorate the occasion. In a circular issued by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, it was announced that August 20th would be a work-free day for residents to mark the festivities. Governor Makinde encouraged traditional worshippers and residents to use the day to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the state and the country.
Similarly, the Lagos State Government has, for the first time, declared Tuesday, August 20th, 2024, a work-free day for public servants in the state to celebrate Isese Day. The announcement was made in a circular issued by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, noting that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had approved the holiday. Public servants are expected to resume work on Wednesday, August 21st, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.
The Osun and Ogun State governments have also declared Tuesday as a public holiday. In Osun State, the announcement was made by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Abdul-Rasheed Kayode Aderibigbe, on behalf of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke. In Ogun State, the declaration was made by the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. The Ogun State Government emphasized its commitment to religious inclusivity and urged traditional worshippers to celebrate in moderation, respecting the rights of others and praying for peace and economic advancement in the state and the country.
