In commemoration of the 2023 Isese Day celebration, which will take place on Sunday, August 20, the Lagos State Government has declared Monday, August 21, a work-free day for all public servants in the state.
This is contained in an August 18 circular obtained by The Punch on Saturday.
According to the circular, which bears the signature of the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared Monday a work-free day for government employees “with a view to promoting our indigenous culture and tradition while preserving our heritage.”
“Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has graciously declared Monday, August 21, 2023, a work-free day for public servants in the state, in order to promote our indigenous culture and tradition while preserving our heritage.” Work will thus resume on Tuesday, August 22nd, at 8 a.m.,” the circular said in part.
The Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs urged the Lagos State Government in July to officially recognise and declare August 20 as the state’s Isese Day holiday.
The traditional rulers, speaking at the inauguration of the state Council of Obas and Chiefs for another five-year term, said it was critical for the state government to recognise August 20 as Isese Day in the spirit of democracy and religious freedom.
The Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Elegushi, spoke on behalf of the council, saying, “It is a demand that has been on the governor’s table for so long.”
