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The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, together with his counterparts, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, have declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025 as a work-free day in their respective states to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration.
In announcing the decision on Monday, the three governors, through separate press statements signed by their spokespersons, said the public holiday was aimed at acknowledging and preserving the cultural identity and spiritual values of the Yoruba people.
According to the statements, the work-free day will allow traditional worshipers and cultural enthusiasts across the three states to celebrate the annual festival with prayers, rituals and colourful displays that promote peace and communal bond among the people.
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the state recognised the importance of preserving indigenous practices and would continue to respect the rights of all religious and cultural groups.
He urged residents to use the opportunity to reflect on the values of tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence which underpin the Isese festival.
Similarly, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State said the declaration of the holiday is in line with his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all religions are treated fairly and equally.
He charged traditional institutions and leaders to engage the youth and enlighten them on the significance of the celebration, adding that peaceful conduct and respect for the law should be upheld during the festivities.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde described Isese Day as a symbol of Yoruba identity. “This administration will continue to promote cultural renaissance, preserve our heritage and encourage our people to take pride in their roots,” he said.
Isese Day, observed annually in many Yoruba-speaking states, is a festival dedicated to celebrating traditional religion and culture. The celebration usually involves special prayers, traditional rites, musical performances and lectures on cultural values.
Residents across the three states have welcomed the holiday with excitement.
A trader in Oyo town, Iyabo Adegbite, said the day was long-awaited. “This is a good step. It shows that our culture is respected. We will use the day to offer prayers for peace and progress in our land,” she said.
Traditional worship associations, under the aegis of the Council of Orisa Chiefs, also commended the governors for what they described as “a bold and inclusive decision” and called on other Southwest states to follow suit.
The governors advised members of the public to celebrate responsibly and steer clear of acts that could disrupt public peace, assuring that adequate security measures had been put in place to ensure a hitch-free celebration across the states.
With the declaration, all government offices, schools and public institutions in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo will remain closed on Wednesday, while essential services will continue to operate. Normal work will resume on Thursday, August 21.
