The Osun State Government has declared Wednesday a public holiday for the annual Isese traditional festival in the state.
This was contained in a statement issued in Osogbo by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Abdulrasheed Aderibigbe.
Aderibigbe explained that the public holiday would enable traditional religion worshippers across the state to fully participate in the annual celebration.
The statement noted that Governor Ademola Adeleke, while felicitating with adherents of traditional religion, recognised and honoured the cultural heritage and traditions of the people of the state, as well as the need to promote cultural awareness and unity.
Governor Adeleke extended his best wishes to traditional religion worshippers, urging them to enjoy the festival peacefully, remain law-abiding, and respect one another during the celebration.
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Isese Day is an annual cultural and religious celebration observed by practitioners of the Yoruba traditional religion, primarily in the South West. The day is dedicated to honouring Yoruba deities and Orisha, while also preserving the heritage and customs of the Yoruba people.
The celebration was first declared a public holiday in Osun in August 2014, under the administration of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Since then, other South-West states, including Lagos, Ogun and Oyo, have officially recognised 20 August as Isese Day, often declaring it a work-free day for public servants.
