By Latiifah Amusan
The traditional ruler of the Ikate Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, commended the Lagos State Government and several other state governments for extending official recognition to the annual traditional festival known as Isese Day.
Speaking at the Isese Day celebration in his palace, Oba Elegushi emphasized that this recognition marked a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and equality within society.
Oba Elegushi emphasized that this recognition was long overdue, as practitioners of traditional worship were integral members of the community who deserved acknowledgment.
He likened their desire for a designated holiday to the observances of Christianity and Islam, suggesting that the same level of respect should be accorded to traditional beliefs
During the festivities, the monarch conveyed his contentment that, after years of lobbying the government, Isese Day was finally incorporated into the official calendar by the Lagos State Government and selected Southwest state governments.
In his remarks, Oba Elegushi made a plea to the Federal Government to elevate Isese Day to the status of a national holiday.
He emphasized that adherents of non-mainstream faiths also contributed significantly to the nation’s peace and progress.
Isese Day, an annual celebration of traditional religious practices, is commemorated on August 20.
Notably, the leader of Isese practitioners worldwide, Dr. Ifarotimi Balogun, marked this year’s Isese Day in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
Dr. Balogun explained that followers of the traditional faith had anticipated economic hardships through divination with the Ifa Oracle.
Dr. Balogun praised the states of Ogun, Lagos, Oyo, and Osun for recognizing Isese Day and urged other Southwest state governments to support adherents of the traditional faith in embarking on spiritual pilgrimages to Brazil, akin to the hajj for Muslims and Christian pilgrimages.
