n a heartfelt commitment to fostering religious inclusiveness, the Dapo Abiodun-led administration in Ogun State has vowed to continue promoting religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence among various faiths.
During the vibrant 2024 ‘Isese’ Day celebration in Abeokuta, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Oluwasesan Fagbayi, emphasized the importance of celebrating Yoruba heritage and traditions. Fagbayi highlighted that supporting traditional institutions and promoting indigenous traditions are key to preserving the Yoruba traditional religion.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Quudus Yusuff, Fagbayi noted that the colorful display by various traditional religious sects demonstrated the event’s potential to gain international recognition and attract global tourists, thereby boosting the state’s tourism potential.
Chief Nurudeen Olaleye, Chairman of the Ogun State Alternative Medicine Board and Alawoerin of Egbaland, called on traditional worshippers nationwide to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity, and stability in Ogun State and Nigeria.
At Oke-Abola mountain, Saje, Abeokuta, guest lecturer Ojubona Akanbi spoke on the theme “Vengeance,” urging the community to shun vengeance, which he warned could hinder progress and be destructive. He stressed that love and unity could prevent harm and foster societal progress. Akanbi also encouraged the youth to engage in activities that promote peace and development in the state and the nation.
August 20 has been marked as ‘Isese’ Day in some Western states since 2023 to celebrate Yoruba traditional religion and traditions, and is now observed across the southwest.
