Osun Declares Thursday Public Holiday For Isese Festival

By Tosin Olasunkanmi, Osogbo

The Osun State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a public holiday to enable traditional religion worshippers across the state to celebrate the 2026 Isese Festival.

The declaration was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Abdul Rasheed Aderibigbe, on behalf of the state government.

According to the statement, the decision was taken as part of the administration’s commitment to recognising and promoting the cultural heritage and traditional practices of the people of Osun State.

The government said the holiday would also provide an opportunity for residents to participate in the annual festival while promoting cultural awareness, unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of the state.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, while felicitating with traditional religion worshippers on the occasion, extended his best wishes to them for a joyous, peaceful and memorable Isese Festival.

The governor acknowledged the importance of traditional institutions and indigenous cultural practices in preserving the identity and heritage of Osun State.

He urged traditional religion worshippers and other residents of the state to celebrate the festival responsibly and peacefully.

Adeleke particularly appealed to citizens to ensure that the festivities were conducted in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

He stressed the need for residents to maintain peace and order and respect the rights and beliefs of others throughout the celebration.

The government further called on traditional religion worshippers to use the occasion to promote unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among the diverse religious and cultural groups in the state.

The state government wished all traditional religion worshippers a successful and memorable 2026 Isese Festival.