The Osun government has declared Wednesday a public holiday to celebrate the annual Isese traditional festival.

This was announced in a statement by the commissioner for home affairs, Abdulrasheed Aderibigbe, in Osogbo.

Mr Aderibigbe said that the public holiday would allow traditional religion worshippers across the state to participate in the annual celebration.

The statement noted that Governor Ademola Adeleke, while felicitating with adherents of traditional religion, recognised and honoured the cultural heritage and traditions of the people, as well as the need to promote cultural awareness and unity.

Mr Adeleke felicitated with traditional religion worshippers on the celebration and extended his best wishes to them for a joyous and memorable festival.

He urged residents in the state, especially those who practise traditional religions, to enjoy the festival, be law-abiding, and respect one another during the celebration.

The day is an annual cultural and religious celebration observed by practitioners of the Yoruba traditional religion, primarily in the South-West.

The day is dedicated to honouring Yoruba deities and ‘Orisha’, as well as preserving the heritage and customs of the Yoruba people.

The celebration was first declared a public holiday in Osun in August 2014, under the administration of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Since then, Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo have officially recognised August 20 as Isese Day, often declaring it a work-free day for public servants.

(NAN)