Osun Govt declares Wednesday public holiday for annual ”Isese” Festival

The Osun Government has declared Wednesday as a public holiday for the annual Isese traditional festival celebration in the state.

This is contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Abdulrasheed Aderibigbe, in Osogbo.

Aderibigbe said that the public holiday would allow traditional religion worshippers across the state to participate in the annual celebration.

The statement noted that Gov. 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.

Gov. Adeleke felicitated with traditional religion worshippers on the celebration and extended his best wishes to them for a joyous and memorable festival.

Adeleke urged residents in the state, especially traditional religion worshippers, to enjoy the festival, be law-abiding, and respect each other during the celebration.

Our correspondent reports that the 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”, as well as preserving the heritage and customs of the Yoruba people.

Our correspondent reports that the celebration was first declared a public holiday in Osun in August 2014, under the administration of former governor of the state, Mr Rauf Aregbesola.

Since then, other southwestern states such as Lagos, Ogun and Oyo officially recognised Aug. 20 as Isese day, often declaring it a work-free day for public servants.