Traditionalists within the Ondo State government have voiced their dissatisfaction due to the government’s failure to declare a public holiday in honor of their annual festival. While states like Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun in the South-West region declared a holiday on August 20, 2023, for the Isese Festival, both Ondo and Ekiti states chose not to do so.
During the Ondo State Isese Cultural Day Celebration held in Akure, the leader of the traditionalist group, Chief Temiadara Ariwajoye, who also holds the title of Oba Asa Agabaye, expressed their appeal to the Ondo State government. Chief Ariwajoye stated, “We celebrate the Isese festival on August 20 every year in all Yoruba-speaking communities. The day is set aside for individual traditional religious adherents to value our traditional religion and culture.”
He further highlighted the importance of recognizing and respecting traditional religions, addressing the misconceptions surrounding them. “Some people are looking at traditional religions as dirty ones. This should not be so because these are religions that were practiced and valued by our forefathers,” Chief Ariwajoye added.
Oba Isese of Ondo State, Mr. Monday Arogbase, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the reawakening of people to traditional religion and culture. He emphasized that these practices are crucial for life, sustenance, and overall peace.
The traditionalists’ appeal underscores the significance of acknowledging and preserving cultural and religious traditions, advocating for their rightful place in contemporary society.
