Traditionalists Applaud Southwest Governors for Recognising Isese Day as Public Holiday

The Assembly of Traditional Religion Worshippers of Ondo State (ATRWOS) has commended the governors of Oyo, Osun, Ogun, and Lagos states — Seyi Makinde, Ademola Adeleke, Dapo Abiodun, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu — for declaring August 20 a public holiday in honour of Isese Day, the annual celebration of Yoruba culture and spirituality.

In a statement issued by ATRWOS Coordinator, Chief Adewale Oso, and signed by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Prince Ojopagogo Adeyinka, the body described the decision as “a landmark recognition of the cultural and traditional values of our people.”

The group urged governors in Ondo, Ekiti, Kogi, and Kwara states to emulate the initiative, stressing that such recognition would not only strengthen cultural identity but also promote inclusivity, peace, and unity in the region.

Meanwhile, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, extended prayers for peace, unity, and progress as residents observed the Isese Festival. In his goodwill message, the monarch emphasised the importance of honesty and mutual respect in sustaining harmony across Lagos Island and Nigeria at large.

At the Lagos celebrations, Chief Obanikoro and Chief Adesoji Ajayiwele, Secretary of Traditional Chiefs in the state, underscored the spiritual value of the festival, describing it as a period dedicated solely to prayers for national peace.

“For 24 years, Lagos has celebrated Isese without violence. Our deities, including Sango and Oya, are not invoked to curse anyone; our practices are solely for peace,” Chief Obanikoro stated.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government, Prince Taiwo Oyekan, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving Yoruba heritage, noting that this was his first Isese Day in office.

“It’s our culture, and we celebrate it every year. I want to make it bigger so our community can continue to enjoy peace,” Oyekan said, while praising traditional chiefs for their prayers for the nation and Lagos State.

The Isese Festival, increasingly recognised across Yoruba-speaking states, continues to serve as a unifying platform for cultural pride, interfaith respect, and spiritual renewal.