The Acting Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, has called on residents of the state to sustain the culture of unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence that has continued to distinguish Oyo State, describing the harmonious relationship among adherents of different faiths as a major strength and a key factor behind the state’s steady development. Lawal made the call on Thursday while speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Isese Day Festival, themed “Unity is the Way to Success,” held at the Indoor Tennis Court of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Chief Bayo Lawal, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Kazeem Adeniyi, lauded the adherents of African Traditional Religion for the harmony, coordination, and cooperation with adherents of other religions as well as their commitment to peaceful coexistence and support for government policies aimed at preserving traditional beliefs in the state.
He congratulated the African Traditional Religion worshippers on the successful celebration of the 2026 Isese Festival, while calling on them to continue supporting the state government and to continue to preserve the Yoruba tradition and culture.
In his words: “His Excellency would like to congratulate the adherents of the African Traditional Religion across the 33 Local Government Areas of Oyo State and Nigeria on witnessing another Isese Festival.
“The message we would like to present is for them to continue to live in harmony with others and to continue to support the Oyo State Government in implementing policies and programmes that aim to develop the state, secure its people and also preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba.
“We also call on them to make sure that they continue to do everything to support the government in overcoming the challenges of insecurity in the state.
“The Oyo State Government always appreciates the harmonious existence and the coordination as well as cooperation among all the religions in the state. This unity has helped the state to focus on development and we would like to encourage residents of the state to continue in the same manner.
“Let us make sure we continue living peacefully to achieve greater things in Oyo State.”
In his royal message, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, represented by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, thanked Isese worshippers for their cordial relationship with other faiths. He urged them to continue upholding and promoting tradition while ensuring the state remains free from social vices.
In their separate welcome addresses, the Araba/Olu-Isese of Ibadanland, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II, and the Aare Isese of Oyo State, Chief Omikunle Egbelade, appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for his consistent support for culture and tourism.
They noted that the government’s commitment has fostered unity, peace, and religious tolerance while also boosting the state’s economy.
They described Isese as the traditional foundation of spirituality, morality, family, community, nature, and ancestral reverence, noting that Isese provides guidance on the Yoruba way of life.
Special prayers were offered for Governor Makinde, the people of Oyo State, and Nigeria.
Highlights of the celebration included traditional performances and cultural dances presented by representatives from the 33 local government areas of the state.
The event was attended by top government functionaries, traditional rulers, and heads of traditional religious organisations.
