Isese Day: Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Adeleke, Makinde Declare Tuesday Public Holiday

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun declared Tuesday, 20 August 2024, work-free for public servants to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration.

Although the United Nations declared August 20 as World Traditional Religion (Isese) Day, this is the first time the Lagos state government has declared a holiday for Isese Day celebrations.

This is in a circular issued by the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro.

According to the circular, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved declaring Tuesday, August 20th, 2024, a work-free day for public servants in the state.

The circular said public servants would resume work on Wednesday by 8.00am.

The circular reads: “Commemoration of Year 2024 Isese  Day – Declaration Of Work Free Day.

“It is now notified for general information that this Year’s Isese Day Celebration will be held on Tuesday, 20th August 2024.

“In emphasising commitment to give necessary support to traditional institutions, as well as enhance the promotion of Indigenous tradition by preserving cultural heritage, Mr Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has approved that Tuesday, 20th August 2024, be declared a Work-Free Day for Public Servants in the State.

“Consequently, work resumes on Wednesday, 21st August, 2024 at 8 am.

“Accordingly, all Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this Circular and give it the deserved Service wide publicity.”

In Ogun state, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, who announced the declaration of public holiday in a statement, said the step is in line with Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s firm belief in religious inclusivity.

The statement added that Ogun State remains an exemplary federating unit with an enviable level of religious cohesion and harmony, even in the face of diversity.

It, therefore, urged traditional worshippers in the state to celebrate in moderation and respect the rights of other religions in the course of celebration to sustain the inherent culture of religious tolerance in the state.

The statement also charged the adherents with using the particular festive period to pray for peace and economic advancement in Ogun State and Nigeria at large, adding that prayers contribute immensely to the success of every nation.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and his Oyo state counterpart had previously declared Tuesday, August 20, a public holiday in the State to celebrate Traditional Religion (Isese) Day.