The Lagos State Council of Obas has asked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to give special recognition to the traditional festival, Isese, calling on the government to set aside August 20 anually for the Isese Day in recognition of the role of traditional institutions in the state.
The monarchs made the demand at the inauguration of the new Lagos Council of Obas and Chiefs for another five years by Góvernór Sanwo-Olu held at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of other Obas, the Elegushi of Ikate land, Oba Saheed Elegushi, said the democracy being practised in Nigeria gives equal recognition to all religions.
He added that since the Christians and Muslims have special days when they celebrate their festivals recognised by the government, Isese Day celebrated by the traditional institution should also be recognised.
“There has been a demand on the table of the governor for so long asking for special recognition for Isese Day. We celebrate Isese Day yearly on August 20. We have been to the House of Assembly to tell them that we, the traditional institute, should have our own special recognition to celebrate Isese Day. That’s why we are begging the governor to give the day approval and special recognition. We are in a democracy and should be able to practise our religion. The Christians and Muslims have their days, the same way we also should have our day,” he said.
The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Omogbolahan Wasiu, said traditional rulers also provide spiritual security, which is very important, adding that various rites such as Oro, will be carried out on the day so as to protect lives and property of the residents.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the inauguration of the council for another five years “further attests to the high pedestal this administration places our traditional institution and its relevance to the contemporary governance structure and delivery of dividends of democracy.”
He thanked the monarchs for their role in the last governorship election by ensuring there was peace.
The governor further said that a total number of 48 obas were installed between June 2020 to May 2023, and promised his administration will continue to support traditional rulers with welfare packages to enhance their mobility and general upkeep.
He also urged them to serve as ‘vital bridges between the people and the government as fathers of their respective communities.’
The re-inaugurated council has 84 members made up of first class traditional rulers and chiefs.
