Oyo declares holiday for Isese Day celebration

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration in the state.

The declaration was contained in a statement issued and signed by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, on Wednesday.

According to the statement, Governor Seyi Makinde approved the work-free day to enable residents across the state to commemorate the traditional festival.

The government said the declaration would provide residents with the opportunity to participate in the Isese Day celebration and observe the occasion in accordance with their traditions and cultural practices.

The state government urged residents to use the celebration as an opportunity to offer prayers for peace, unity and stability in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

The statement quoted Governor Makinde as calling on residents to pray for the continued peace and progress of Oyo State and the country.

The governor also encouraged residents to make the occasion meaningful by promoting unity, peaceful coexistence and the collective development of the state.

The government expressed hope that the celebration would further strengthen cultural values while encouraging prayers and goodwill for peace, stability and prosperity across Oyo State and Nigeria.