Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared today, Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day in commemoration of Isese Day, a day dedicated by the state government to celebrating the rich cultural and traditional heritage of the Yoruba people.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Musibau Babatunde.

According to the statement, the governor extended his felicitations to adherents of African Traditional Religion, wishing them a successful and spiritually enriching celebration.

Makinde, however, reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness across all religions, expressing gratitude to traditional worshippers for supporting his government over the past seven years.

The statement noted that the work-free day would enable workers and residents to fully participate in the celebration of the state’s cultural heritage and pray for the peace, unity, and stability of the state.

ALSO, the governments of Ogun and Lagos states have declared today as a public holiday to celebrate the 2026 Isese Day.

The announcements were conveyed in separate statements issued by officials of Lagos and Ogun governments.

Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Idris Aregbe, who announced the public holiday in a statement yesterday, said the Isese Day is more than a public holiday but a “living expression” of Yoruba spirituality.

He said that the public holiday would allow residents to fully participate in the traditional celebration.

Similarly, Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, in a statement, said that the Isese Day provides an opportunity for adherents of the Yoruba traditional religion to honour their ancestors and observe traditional rites.

Akinmade, therefore, urged residents to celebrate the day peacefully and responsibly, while respecting the beliefs, rights and practices of others.