In a statement issued in Ibadan on Wednesday to mark the 2025 Isese Day celebration, ICIR President, Fayemi Fakayode, said such recognition would ensure fairness for adherents of traditional religion across Nigeria.

Currently, Oyo, Lagos, Ogun, and Osun states have declared August 20 a public holiday in honour of Isese, a day set aside to celebrate traditional religion and cultural heritage. Fakayode, however, urged governors in Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta states to follow suit and institutionalize the holiday.

“We call for national recognition from President Tinubu through the declaration of August 20 and 21 as public holidays for Isese across Nigeria,” Fakayode said.

He further urged the Federal Government to support cultural festivals, protect sacred sites, and include traditionalists in cultural councils, similar to the recognition given to Christians and Muslims. According to him, this would help address what he described as “the present state of inequality” among the country’s three major religions.

“Isese represents the foundation of Yoruba and African identity. It embodies morality, unity, reverence for nature, and communal living. Celebrating Isese safeguards our heritage, promotes pride in our culture, and strengthens enduring values such as honesty, respect, and hard work,” he added

Source: Punch