By Richard Thomas
The Oyo State House of Assembly has lauded the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde for fulfilling the promise he made to traditional religious worshippers during his electioneering campaign period that he would grant their request for special recognition for Isese Day celebration in the State.
The House also thanked governor Makinde for approving and declaring every August 21st as public holiday to celebrate the Isese festival in the State.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo on behalf of the governor.
In a statement issued by the Chairman House Committee on information, Media, Public Affairs and ICT, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, and made available to journalists, the House expressed happiness that the motion it passed for approval on August 9, 2023 was confirmed and approved on August 20 2023 as ‘Isese Day’ celebration by the Governor.
The House recalled that the motion for the Isese day was moved by its Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions and beliefs of traditional worshippers, adding that some other States in the South West has approved a day as special holiday for the celebration of Isese festival in their states.
According to the statement, “we recalled with nostalgia that during the 2023 electioneering campaign, His Excellency, Gov. Seyi Makinde had expressed his support for granting a special day to celebrate Isese festival. He had promised the Isese adherents that he would honour their proposal once it was approved by the State House of Assembly.
With this historic occasion by the Governor, Oyo State has set another example for other regions not only to celebrate and embrace their rich heritage but also to learn to foster unity and inclusivity among all religions without discrimination as being witnessed in some states in recent times.” The Statement added.
While congratulating the adherents of traditional worshippers on the celebration of this year Isese festival, the House called on them to use the Isese Day celebration to pray fervently for the peace, progress and prosperity of the state and the people in particular.
Isese Day Festival is celebrated across the globe by traditional religion adherents on 20th of August and the day is always set aside for prayers, offering of sacrifices and festivities.
