Isese Day: Southwest States Declares August 20 as Public Holiday

South-West states in Nigeria have officially declared August 20th as a public holiday ‘Isese Day’ for workers in the region to celebrate the Isese day. This decision allows workers to fully participate in the vibrant cultural festivities marking the celebration of Yoruba traditions.

Isese Day, an important event in the Yoruba calendar, falls annually on August 20. It marks a culmination of a week filled with cultural and religious activities dedicated to Yoruba traditions and spirituality. This year, several states—Lagos, Osun, Ogun, and Oyo—are observing the day with a public holiday, ensuring that residents can partake in the celebrations.

Lagos State announced its declaration on Monday, August 19, through a circular issued by the state’s Head of Service, Bode Agoro. The circular underscored that the holiday reflects Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and preserving cultural heritage after recognizing the ‘Isese Day’ in the state in 2023.

Ogun, Osun and Oyo have also officially designated August 20 as a public holiday, joining Lagos in celebrating Yoruba traditions and culture.

Amongst all the South-western states, Osun State has a longer history with Isese Day, having officially recognised it as a public holiday in 2014, following an earlier approval by former Governor Rauf Aregbesola in 2013. The state observes a week-long celebration leading up to August 20th, with closures of banks, government offices, and other establishments on the holiday itself. Osogbo, the capital, becomes a focal point of the festivities, showcasing the state’s deep-rooted traditions.

Additionally, the Oyo State House of Assembly passed a bill in August 2023 to grant ‘Isese Day’ as a special public holiday. The bill was introduced to ensure that traditional worshippers have a designated day to celebrate their beliefs, acknowledging the importance of such recognition alongside Christian and Muslim holidays. This decision aligns Oyo with its southwestern neighbors in honoring Yoruba traditions.

Isese Day: A Day of Global Celebration of Yoruba Heritage

Isese Day serves as a powerful reminder of the Yoruba people’s rich cultural heritage and their ongoing influence across the globe. With celebrations in Nigeria and among the diaspora, the day stands as a vibrant tribute to Yoruba traditions, uniting people in a shared celebration of their heritage.