The governments of Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states has given official recognition to the celebration of Isese Day by declaring August 20 as Isese day in their various states and also declaring the following day, Monday, August 21 as work free day.
In Lagos, a circular signed by the state Head of Service, Mr Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the Isese Day in the state will hold on Sunday, August 20, 2023.
“In restating its commitment to continue to provide necessary support to traditional institutions in the state with a view to promoting our indigenous culture and tradition while preserving our heritage, Mr Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo Olu has graciously declared Monday, August 21, 2023, a Work Free Day for Public Servants in the state. Work will therefore resume on Tuesday, August 22, 2023”, the statement read.
The Oyo State, governor Seyi Makinde also declared his support for Isese Day and declared Monday as work free.
The official recognition of Isese Day was contained in a circular by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo. Governor Makinde, as stated in the circular, urged traditional worshippers in the state to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and stability of the state in particular and the country in general.
The approval of Isese Day indicated the governor’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for all religious practices in the state.
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun also declared Monday, 21st August 2023 as public holiday to commemorate the annual Isese Day.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Lekan Adeniran gave a history behind the declaration. “On 7th, March, 2023, Governor Abiodun issued an executive order, declaring August 20 of every year as Isese Day in Ogun State. The state House of Assembly, on July 11, gave legal backing to the executive order.
Adeniran on Saturday, praised the existing harmony among the adherents of all religions in the Gateway State. He said the recognition granted Isese Day was to continue in the tradition of respecting the tradition of our people and ensure the continuation of the unity and harmony among the three major religions in the state.
Prince Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and respecting all religions in the state.
He also expressed the commitment of his administration to promote, preserve and nurture the culture and tradition of our people.
While congratulating the traditional religion worshippers on the occasion, he also urged them to celebrate with decorum and avoud acts capable of threatening the existing peace in the state.
It would be recalled that Prince Abiodun established the board of Alternate Medicine on the 29th of September, 2020 to support alternative medical practitioners in the state.
This is in recognition of their roles as traditional birth attendants among other contributions to the wellbeing of the people of the state.
Dear readers, we really need your support to keep on serving you with authoritative, truthful, and juicy stories everyday. For your support, please reach out to the editor @gavelinternational66@gmail.com