Traditional worshippers in Ekiti State are rallying for official recognition of August 20 as Isese Day, urging both the Federal Government and the Ekiti State Government to designate it as a public holiday.
Gathering at the Falegan area of Ado Ekiti, the state’s capital, various groups of traditional worshippers celebrated this year’s Isese Day. They commended the governments of Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and Ogun states for acknowledging traditional religion by instituting holidays in its honor.
Dauda Lawal, the Awise (Speaker) of the National Council of Iseselagba (traditional worshippers) in Ekiti State, applauded the state’s government for its effective approach to issues and progress. However, he appealed for further recognition, stating, “We call on Governor Biodun Oyebanji, a leader of the people like his counterparts in the South-West, to declare August 20 as Isese Day and grant us a public holiday to commemorate this annual event.”
He continued by emphasizing the collective nature of their prayers and the occasion, taking time to offer prayers for various leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji, traditional rulers, and the entire state.
Backing the sentiment, Oba Aare Oloja Isese Agbaye, Ifakayode Famuyibo, urged Governor Oyebanji to annually designate August 20 as a public holiday, enhancing the extensive celebration of Isese. Famuyibo highlighted Ekiti’s significance as the origin of Isese, the first religion that merits universal embrace and celebration. He regarded the day as a period for prayers and commemoration of the past and present.
Clad predominantly in white attire, the traditional worshippers, including followers of Ifa, Osun, Oya, Aje, and Osanyin, converged to pray for peace, prosperity, progress, and overall well-being for the nation and its citizens.
With unity and fervor, the traditional worshippers are resolute in their pursuit of recognition for Isese Day, aiming to solidify its significance and promote its celebration across the state.