By The Osun State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a public holiday to enable traditional religion worshippers across the state to take part in this year’s celebration of the Isese Festival.
The announcement was contained in a press release issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and signed by the Honourable Commissioner, AbdulRasheed Aderibigbe. According to the statement, the decision reflects the government’s commitment to recognising and honouring the cultural heritage and traditions of the people of Osun State and to promoting cultural awareness and unity among residents.
Isese, observed annually by adherents of Yoruba traditional religion, celebrates indigenous spiritual practices, ancestral heritage and the customs historically associated with pre-colonial Yoruba society. The festival has in recent years received growing formal recognition across Yoruba states, including public holiday status in states such as Ogun and Oyo, as governments seek to affirm indigenous belief systems alongside Christianity and Islam.
In the statement, Governor Ademola Adeleke, referred to in the release by his full title as Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, felicitated with adherents of traditional religion across the state and extended his best wishes for what the government described as a joyous and memorable celebration.
The governor, however, urged citizens, particularly traditional religion worshippers, to enjoy the festivities while adhering strictly to all applicable laws and regulations in order to maintain peace, order and respect for others during the celebrations.
The holiday declaration comes days after Adeleke was declared winner of Saturday’s governorship election and returned for a second term, and in the same week that saw his administration navigate a tense post-election atmosphere in parts of the state. Thursday’s observance is expected to see gatherings, cultural displays, and religious rites held by Isese devotees in Osogbo and other parts of Osun State.
