By Damilare Adeleye
The Ogun State and Lagos State governments have declared Tuesday, August 20, a public holiday to celebrate this year’s Isese Day.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the work-free day will allow traditional worshippers across the state to commemorate their special day.
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 urged traditional worshippers in the state to celebrate in moderation and respect the rights of others’ religions during the celebrations to sustain the state’s inherent culture of religious tolerance.
The statement also encouraged the adherents to use the special 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.
Similarly a circular issued by Lagos State’s Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, announced that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had approved that Tuesday, 20th August, 2024 be declared work-free for public servants in the State.
The circular directed public servants to resume work on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 by 8.00am.
Although the United Nations had declared August 20, as World Traditional Religion (Isese) Day, this is the first time the Lagos State Government declared a public holiday for adherents to celebrate the day.
The circular reads: “COMMEMORATION OF YEAR 2024 ISESE DAY – DECLARATION OF WORK FREE DAY.
“It is hereby notified for general information that this Year’s Isese Day Celebration will hold 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 8:00 a.m.“Accordingly, all Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this Circular and give it the deserved Service wide publicity.”