Traditional worshippers in Ogun State have urged the government to grant Isese Day the same recognition and support given to Christmas and Sallah celebrations.
Speaking at the Oke-Bola praying ground during the 2025 Isese Day, the state head of traditional worshippers, Eniowo Aregbesola Anipupo, appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to extend financial support to adherents, stressing the need for fairness among all religions.
The Ogun Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi, responded that the administration already recognizes August 20 as Isese Day and urged traditionalists to embrace unity with Muslims and Christians.
Similarly, the International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) called on President Bola Tinubu to declare August 20–21 as national public holidays and urged more governors to emulate Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states by institutionalizing the celebration.
ICIR president, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, also urged the Federal Government to fund cultural festivals, protect sacred lands, and integrate practitioners into national cultural councils.
Traditional leaders and cultural advocates, including the Akinrogun Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Kazeem Adewale Hamzat, hailed the recognition of Isese Day as a vital step in preserving Yoruba identity, heritage, and spirituality.