Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has assured Isese adherents that his administration will continue to promote and support them to preserve the cultural and traditional heritage of the people.
The governor gave the assurance while speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 Isese Festival with the theme “Unity Is The Way To Success”, held on Wednesday at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Makinde, who spoke through the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun, commended all the Isese devotees for their peaceful co-existence and tolerance.
He also appreciated them for their support for the government, and for upholding the cultural heritage through the preservation of traditional beliefs across the geopolitical zones of the state.
Makinde urged the Isese adherents to continue to make traditional festivals and beliefs attractive to the young ones in order to preserve the heritage.
Earlier, speaking in his capacity as the state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Olatubosun lauded Governor Makinde for his effort at getting Sango Festival enlisted and recognised as the first Yoruba Cultural Festival of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UNESCO.
Olatubosun said: “I want to express gratitude to the governor for always keeping to his promises.
“Let’s recall, during the electioneering period, he did promise that if he became the governor, he would ensure there is a holiday for the celebration of Isese Day and, today, it has become a reality.
“Apart from that, he promised that in his administration, there would be equality in the three major religions in the state — Christianity, Islam and traditionalism.
“This shows that he is a governor for all. We have been clamouring for this for a long time in Oyo State, all to no avail.
“But since Governor Makinde came on board, he has ensured that every religion is carried along and we are happy with this development.
“For all of these achievements, our elders are expressing gratitude. We have been celebrating this event in the stadium since last year and we are very happy to be here.
“I am glad about the turn out today’s event is witnessing. Seeing even the little children gladdens my heart.
“Having said that, I want to urge us all to continue to support Governor Makinde who has started well, so that he can end well. Always remember him and the state in your prayers.”
In his goodwill message, the Olubadan of Ibadanland-designate, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, thanked all the stakeholders for their cordial relationship and assured of his support to Isese celebration and their beliefs.
The Olubadan-designate was represented at the 2025 Isese Day by Mogaji Adesina Olatunji Aresa.
The President, Traditional Religion Worshipers Association of Oyo State, Surveyor Dasola Adefabi, also appreciated Governor Makinde for declaring August 20th every year as a work-free day for the celebration of Isese.
He stressed that the governor has not only acknowledged the importance of their faith but has reinforced the spirit of unity and respect among the diverse religious and cultural communities.
Adefabi appealed to the Isese adherents to continue to promote peaceful co-existence among themselves.
Speaking in his sermon, titled “Unity”, the Asiwaju Awo of Oyo State, Chief Olufade Olanipekun, emphasised that good communication, cordial relationship and support to leaders in government at all levels should be their priority to foster progress and development.
He, therefore, urged the leaders of Isese religion to encourage youths through innovation and use of modern technologies in their various environments to enhance their inclusiveness in the sacred heritage.
Earlier in their separate welcome addresses, the Aare Isese of Oyo State, Chief Omikunle Egbelade, and Araba/Olu-Isese of Ibadanland, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi, appreciated the benevolence of the creator for the opportunity to witness another celebration of Isese Day in the state.
They also thanked Governor Makinde for his unwavering support and commitment to the tradition and cultural heritage which had promoted unity, peace and oneness of all the religions.
The duo noted that the Isese festival unites not only the Yoruba race, but the global community that values diversity, spirituality and cultural identity to share traditions with the world at large and to show that isese is a path of peace, tolerance and respect for humanity.
They called on all adherents to continue in unity to preserve the traditions and protect spirituality for işeşe to stand as a beacon of wisdom for generations yet unborn.
They offered special prayers for Governor Makinde, Oyo State and the country at large.
Highlights of the 2025 Isese celebration were the parade of orisa colours, special performances and traditional dances from the representatives of the 33 local government areas across the state.
The event had in attendance top government functionaries, traditional rulers and heads of traditional religions, among others.
