The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association in Oyo State has reiterated its request to Governor Seyi Makinde to follow the lead of other governors in the South-West region who have granted approval for the Isese Festival holiday in their respective states.
In a statement issued by the association’s state Secretary, Fakayode Fatunde, and Public Relations Officer, Taiwo Fagbohun, they expressed their appreciation to the Ogun State House of Assembly for passing a bill and approving the Isese Day holiday for traditional religious worshippers in Ogun State.
It should be noted that the Ogun Assembly based their decision on the importance of promoting the state’s rich culture and tradition for future generations. They proposed that Isese-Cultural Day be observed on August 20 and declared as a public holiday.
The association said, “It is noteworthy, commendable, and historical, the action of the Ogun Assembly for passing the bill for the Isese Day holiday for our teeming members in the state. It goes to show that members of the Assembly are not discriminatory and embrace all religious worshippers as members of the society.
“The Nigerian constitution allows all citizens to practice their choices of religion, in as much as it does not affect the freedom of others, it is unfortunate that such freedom of choice is not allowed to grow in Nigeria, but we appreciate Olodumare that the Ogun Assembly followed the footsteps of the Osun State by declaring August 20 as Isese Day holiday.
“We are using this opportunity to appeal to our amiable Governor in this state, Makinde, during whose regime different positive beginnings are being witnessed to also follow this step and declare the holiday, as done by the Osun and Ogun States’ governments.
“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 Makinde’s capacity to make the bold decision,” the association added.
