The Oyo State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, a work-free day to allow residents to celebrate Isese Day and honour the cultural and traditional heritage of the Yoruba people.
The declaration was contained in a memo signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Musibau Babatunde, and released on Wednesday through the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju.
Governor Seyi Makinde extended his greetings to adherents of African Traditional Religion across Oyo State, Nigeria and beyond, wishing them a peaceful and spiritually enriching celebration.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness and inclusiveness across religious groups, while appreciating traditional worshippers for their support over the past seven years.
According to the government, the work-free day will enable workers and residents to participate fully in activities marking the state’s cultural heritage and pray for peace, unity and stability.
Makinde introduced the Isese Day celebration as part of efforts to recognise traditional religion and promote cultural tourism in Oyo State.
The administration has repeatedly identified cultural tourism as one of the state’s major economic opportunities, with the celebration expected to further promote Yoruba heritage and traditional practices.
