Ogun State Government has announced Tuesday, August 20 as public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Isese day.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the holiday is in line with Mr. Dapo Abiodun’s firm belief in religious inclusivity.
The statement noted that the work-free day will allow traditional worshippers across the state to celebrate their special day.
It reiterated that Ogun State remains an exemplary federating unit with enviable level of religious cohesion and harmony, even in the face of diversity.
The statement urged traditional worshippers in the state to celebrate in moderation and respect the right of other religions in the course of celebration, so as to sustain the inherent culture of religious tolerance in the state.
It further charged the adherents to use the special festive period to pray for peace and economic advancement in Ogun State and Nigeria at large, adding that prayers contribute immensely to the success of every nation.
The day is set aside for traditional worshippers to celebrate their deities – and observed as the culmination of a week of traditional religious activities and festivities.
Isese (the Yoruba word for Tradition) Day celebrates the Yoruba traditions and religion in a display of culture and spirituality with parties, festivals, parades, lectures and display of other traditional apparels to attract tourists from other parts of the world.