Oyo, Ogun declare Isese Day as public holiday

Monday, August 20, 2023 has been declared by Governor Seyi Makinde as a public holiday in Oyo State to for the festivities of the Isese Day.

This is just as Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, declared Monday, August 21, 2023 as a public holiday to commemorate the annual Isese Day.

A statement by the Oyo State Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, stated that Makinde approved August 20 as Isese Day and as a public holiday.

The statement said, “To this end, the governor has declared Monday, August 21, 2023, as the maiden public holiday to commemorate the day.”

The statement quoted a circular from the Secretary to the Oyo State Government Professor Olanike Adeyemo instructing traditional worshippers in the state to use the period to pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the state in particular and the country in general.

It noted that Makinde’s approval of the Isese Day is an indication of the “governor’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for all religious practices in the state”.

The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who also delared Monday, 21st August 2023 as a public holiday to commemorate the annual Isese Day, said the day is set aside by traditional religious worshippers to celebrate Yoruba culture and tradition.

A statement by Governor Abiodun’s Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, on Saturday, praised the existing harmony among adherents of all religions in Gateway State.

He said the decision to accord Isese Day a special recognition was to continue the culture of respecting the tradition of the Ogun people and ensure the continuation of the unity and harmony among the three major religions in the state.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and respecting all religions in the state.

He also expressed the commitment of his administration to promote, preserve and nurture the culture and tradition of our people.

While congratulating the traditional religion worshippers on the occasion, he also urged them to celebrate with decorum and avoid acts capable of threatening the existing peace in the state.

Similarly, Lagos and Osun states have also declared a public holiday for the event.