- Safiu Kehinde
The Ogun State Government has declared Wednesday 20th of August as public holiday to commemorate the annual Isese Day celebration.
This was announced in a statement released by Mr Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Monday in Abeokuta.
According to Akinmade, the day which was formally recognised as a public holiday was set aside in celebration of Yoruba tradition and religion
“It will be recalled that the date was formally declared a public holiday in 2023, following a motion passed by the Ogun State House of Assembly and the concurrent approval of Gov. Abiodun.
“The day is set aside to celebrate Yoruba religion and traditions,” he said.
Akinmade stated that the introduction of Isese Day as public holiday by Ogun government reflected Abiodun’s recognition of the vital role that Yoruba heritage and practices play in the state’s identity and cultural landscape.
“Isese Day serves as an opportunity for adherents of the Yoruba religion to honour their ancestors, engage in traditional practices and promote the values and teachings inherent in their spiritual beliefs.
“The celebration not only fosters a sense of community among practitioners but also invites the broader society to appreciate and respect the rich cultural tapestry that the Yoruba tradition contributes to Nigeria,” he added.
In the same vein, the Lagos State Government also declared Wednesday public holiday in the state.
This according to a circular issued by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, and addressed to top government functionaries across ministries, agencies, local councils, and parastatals., is part of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led administration’s commitment to promoting indigenous culture, tradition, and Yoruba heritage.
“It is hereby notified for general information that this year’s Isese Day Celebration will hold on Wednesday, 20th August, 2025.
“In reaffirming the commitment of the State Government towards promoting our indigenous culture, tradition and preserving our heritage, while providing necessary support for traditional Institutions in the State, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has declared Wednesday, 20th August, 2025 as Work Free Day for Lagos State Public Servants in commemoration of the Day.” The statement read.
However, the circular directed that government offices will reopen the following day.
“Consequently, work resumes on Thursday, 21st August, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Accordingly, all Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this Circular and give it the deserved Service-wide publicity,” it added.