Lagos, Ogun and Oyo declare work-free day for Isese celebration
Three South-West states—Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo—have declared Thursday, August 20 a work-free day to mark Isese Day, an important celebration of Yoruba culture and traditional religion. The holiday allows public servants and residents to participate in prayers, rituals, and cultural activities across the states. Officials emphasized the significance of Isese Day as a living expression of Yoruba heritage, with millions expected to join in Lagos alone. The observance is framed as both a religious and cultural event, reflecting the states’ commitment to inclusiveness and indigenous values.
What we know
- Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo governments declared Thursday, August 20 a public holiday for Isese Day.
- Over three million participants are expected in Lagos, making it one of the largest gatherings of African Traditional Religion faithful globally.
- The Lagos government noted that Isese Day has been observed as a work-free day since 2023 after a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
- In Ogun, the holiday was officially declared in 2023 following approval by the state House of Assembly and Governor Dapo Abiodun.
- Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to religious fairness and thanked traditional worshippers for their support over the past seven years.
