Jubilation as Govt Declares Public Holiday, Date and Details Emerge

• The Lagos state government has declared Tuesday, August 20, as work-free for public servants to mark the 2024 'Isese Day'
• Legit.ng reports that this was announced in a circular issued by the head of service, Bode Agoro
• According to the circular, the governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had approved that Tuesday, August 20, 2024, be declared a work-free day for public servants in Lagos state

Legit.ng journalist, Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, has over 9 years of experience covering public affairs.

Ikeja, Lagos state - Lagos governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has declared Tuesday, August 20, a work-free for all public servants in the state.

According to a tweet on Monday, August 19, by Ajetunmobi Ridwan Olawale, the senior special assistant on media to Sanwo-Olu, the governor’s declaration is in commemoration of the 2024 'Isese Day' celebration.

A circular also noted the governor's position—a development expected to generate delight among Isese adherents.

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The government's message reads:

“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.”

Legit.ng reports that Isese Day is a regional celebration usually observed on August 20 of every year in territories deemed 'Yoruba states': Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and Ekiti.

Although Isese practitioners tried to make inroads into Ilorin in Kwara state, it was met with resistance in 2023.

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Isese: Yoruba cultural heritage lauded

Ahead of the Isese Day, some practitioners spoke to Legit.ng and lauded the cultural heritage of the Yoruba. According to them, the tradition is rich.

Lagos-based Ifasola Opeodu said the day is "a testament to the unity, respect, and tradition that define us".

Opeodu said:

"We are stronger together, and this festival is a clear indication that our region is on the right path.

"I pray we continue to celebrate many more peaceful and excellent Isese Days in the years to come."

For Nureni Ayinla-Oniru, Isese has deep spiritual roots that connect Yoruba people to their ancestors.

Ayinla-Oniru told Legit.ng:

"Isese is indeed a way of life—an expression of love, peace, and the reverence we hold for our culture.

"It is a reminder of who we are and where we come from, and it encourages us to stay connected to our roots."

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Read more on public holidays in Nigeria

• Public holiday: List of states where workers will not work tomorrow and why
• Jubilation as Nigerian governor declares public holiday, gives reason
• Borno declares public holiday
• Full list of public holidays Nigerians will observe in 2024

Isese Day: Ogun declares Tuesday public holiday

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Ogun state government declared Tuesday, August 20, a public holiday to celebrate the 2024 Isese Day—in line with the Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s commitment to religious inclusivity.

According to a statement signed by Kayode Akinmade, the special adviser to the governor on media and strategy, the work-free day will allow traditional worshippers across the state to commemorate their special day.

Source: Legit.ng