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The observance of Isese Day on Monday, August 20, 2024 for which a public holiday was declared by the governments of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states, continues to generate mixed reactions across Southwest Nigeria.
While the day was dedicated to honoring the Yoruba traditional religion, the event has left lingering debates about its impact and relevance in a secular nation like Nigeria.
It would be recalled that the Chairman of the South West Governors Forum and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gbenga Akosile, praised the people of South West particularly traditional rulers and traditional religious worshipers for sustaining and preserving the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
Isese Day, a celebration of Yoruba spirituality, featured various cultural activities such as dancing, drumming, and the performance of Egungun masquerades. Devotees gathered to worship deities like Esu, Obatala, and Sango, engaging in rituals that included offerings of local gin, kola nuts, and palm oil at shrines.
In the Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos, Ifa priest, Eja led a two-day celebration that began on 19th August. The event attracted a large crowd, with participants sharing different perspectives on the holiday.
One of the worshipers who simply introduced himself as Adetayo, expressed his satisfaction with the public holiday, noting that it provided an official platform for traditional believers to celebrate their faith openly. He appreciated the opportunity to deepen his understanding of Yoruba spirituality and looked forward to future celebrations.
Another member of the traditional religion who introduced herself as Miss Kemi also shared her experience, highlighting the personal significance of participating in the “Egbe rite,” which she said helped her reconnect with her spiritual roots.
However, the holiday was not without its critics. Miss Aneesat, a Lagos resident, questioned the relevance of Isese Day, arguing that the majority of Nigerians are either Christians or Muslims. She expressed concern over some of the rituals associated with the celebration, which she believes involve controversial practices.
Public sentiment further divided after reports surfaced of disruptions caused by Isese Day celebrants. In Lagos, traditionalists dressed in full regalia were seen blocking roads and causing traffic congestion, leading to complaints from commuters. Esther Eiyegbeni, a working-class citizen, recounted how she was delayed by the celebrants on Mobolaji Anthony Way despite leaving home early.
Adefowora Precious, a student at the University of Lagos, reported that celebrants in Iyana Ipaja were demanding money from passersby and threatening those who refused.
Eiyegbeni called on the government to enforce laws that would prevent such disruptions in the future, emphasizing that Isese Day should not be used as an excuse for criminal behavior.
While the public holiday provided an opportunity for Yoruba traditionalists to express their faith, it also sparked debate over its impact on public order and the broader implications for Nigeria’s unity. As the celebration continues to evolve, its necessity and significance may need to be reassessed to ensure it fosters harmony rather than division.
While Nigeria has been tagged among the most religious countries on the planet going by activities of Christians and Muslims that form the majority of religious people, the declaration of Isese Day in the densely populated South West region is further entrenching the country as a religiously active country.
The event has gained recognition as a holiday in several southwestern states, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, underscoring a commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting indigenous traditions.
The government’s support, especially Lagos State’s declaration of a public holiday, signifies a notable step towards promoting inter-religious understanding and cultural preservation, but the mixed reactions indicate that more dialogue may be needed to balance tradition with modern societal needs.
Story by Olamide Ayoade, Christiana Gabriel, Jadesola Abolaji and Iretomiwa Balogun
Pix by Iretomiwa Balogun
