Allied Peoples Movement (APM) senatorial candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has called on residents of Oyo to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence as traditional religion adherents celebrate this year’s Isese Day.
Ajadi, in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, congratulated traditional religion worshippers and residents of the state on the celebration, scheduled for Thursday, August 20, 2026.
He urged adherents of traditional religion to celebrate peacefully while respecting the beliefs and practices of people of other faiths.
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The Oyo State Government had declared Thursday a work-free day to enable residents to commemorate Isese Day.
The declaration by Governor Seyi Makinde was made in recognition of the cultural significance of the celebration and its importance to the people of Oyo State.
Ajadi, who is also a philanthropist, urged residents to continue to promote peace and tranquillity, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He called on traditional religion adherents to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and stability in Oyo State and Nigeria.
Ajadi also urged residents to use the celebration as an opportunity to seek divine intervention in the affairs of the nation.
He said, “I congratulate our people on this year’s occasion of Isese Day, a day set aside as a living expression of our traditions and a celebration of Yoruba spirituality as an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape.”
The APM candidate commended Governor Makinde for recognising the celebration by declaring a public holiday, describing the decision as an opportunity to promote Yoruba tradition and culture.
He said the Yoruba people were one of Africa’s largest ethnic groups, adding that the preservation and celebration of their traditions and cultural heritage deserved support.
Ajadi urged residents to celebrate responsibly and use the occasion to strengthen mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among people of different religious beliefs.