Dare Babalola
Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states on Monday declared Wednesday, August 20, a work-free day for public servants in commemoration of the annual Isese Day.
Isese Day, dedicated to the celebration of Yoruba traditional religion and culture, has grown in significance across Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest.
Lagos State Government made the annoucement in a circular issued by the state’s Head of Service, Bode Agoro, with reference number CIR/HOS/’25/Vol.I/064, and addressed to top government officials including the Deputy Governor, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Chief Judge, Commissioners, Chairmen of Local Governments, Local Council Development Areas, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of State agencies, among others.
“In reaffirming the commitment of the State Government towards promoting our indigenous culture, tradition and preserving our heritage, while providing necessary support for traditional Institutions in the State, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has declared Wednesday, 20th August, 2025 as Work-Free Day for Lagos State Public Servants in commemoration of the Day,” the circular read.
On its part, the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, indicated that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the work-free day to mark the Isese Day celebration.
Makinde urged all residents of the state to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and stability of the state and Nigeria in general.
The Ogun State Government, in a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, on Monday, said the introduction of Isese Day as a public holiday reflects Governor Dapo Abiodun’s recognition of the vital role that Yoruba heritage and practices play in the state’s identity and cultural landscape.
The statement read, “Isese Day serves as an opportunity for adherents of the Yoruba religion to honour their ancestors, engage in traditional practices, and promote the values and teachings inherent in their spiritual beliefs.”
Workers in the states were directed to resume their official duties on Thursday, August 21.
Dare Babalola
The Kogi State Government has announced the death of Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani Ododo, the father of Governor Ahmed Ododo.
The state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, made this known in a press statement he signed on Monday.
Fanwo disclosed that the Ododo patriarch died at the age of 83
Fanwo wrote, “The Kogi State Government regrets to announce the passing of the father of the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Late Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani Ododo, who returned to his Creator a few hours ago at the age of 83.
“His Janazah (funeral) will be conducted and he will be laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.
“We pray to Allah (SWT) to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. We also pray that Almighty Allah grants the Governor, his family, and the entire Ododo family the strength to bear this great loss with fortitude.”
