Traditionalists in Oyo State have called on Governor Seyi Makinde to follow the example of other Governors in the region who have approved the Isese festival holiday.
They argued that the Nigerian Constitution allows all citizens to practice their religion as long as it does not infringe on the freedom of others, and that it is unfortunate that such freedom of choice is not encouraged in Nigeria.
The Ogun Assembly recently passed a bill that grants the traditional religion worshippers in the State a holiday on August 20th, which is the day of the Isese festival.
The Secretary of the Traditional Worshippers Association (TWA) Oyo State chapter, Mogaji Fakayode Fatunde, and the Public Relations Officer, Chief Taiwo Fagbohun, have urged Makinde to declare the holiday, as his administration has already brought about many positive changes.
The statement reads: “Our demand is anchored upon our right as a body of believers like our Christian and Muslim brothers and the freedom entrenched in the Nigerian Constitution for us all to associate with our desired religion. We are well aware of Governor Makinde’s capacity to make the bold decision.
“The Ogun State House of Assembly Members anchored their resolution for the holiday on the need to propagate the rich culture and tradition of the State by preserving the same for the oncoming generations.”
“Members of the Assembly called for the observation of every 20th of August as Isese-Cultural Day, which should be declared a work-free day.”
