Wale Jagun
The Executive Chairman, Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Development Area (LCDA), Omo’ba, Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, has described the annual celebration of Isese Day as a reminder of who Yoruba people are and what unites them together.
Omo’ba Aroyewun stressed that the tradition and culture of Yoruba people is about their language, values and the general way of life.
The council boss explained in a statement today, commemorating the 2026 Isese Day while also assuring of his administration’s commitment to continue to uphold the cultural and traditional values.
”Today, the 20th of August 2026, marks another sacred moment in our calendar. Isese Day! A day when millions of voices across our great Lagos State and beyond rise in unified celebration of who we are, where we come from, and what binds us as one people.”
Omo’ba Aroyewun furthered elucidated on essence of culture:
“Isese is not outdated. Isese is not division. Isese is our language, our values, our festivals, our way of life. It is the golden thread that weaves through our history, connecting us to our ancestors, to our present, and to the legacy we shall bequeath to generations yet unborn.”
While also emphasising that the ancient Igbogbo Kingdom has protected and preserved its tradition for ages, which made her an important historic and cultural centre.
”Here in Igbogbo/Baiyeku, we are custodians of this sacred heritage. We are the keepers of traditions that have survived empires, enriched our communities, and positioned our people as architects of culture not just in Nigeria, but in the diaspora across the Caribbeans and beyond.”
”As your Chairman, I am humbled by your steadfast commitment to upholding these values whilst embracing progress. Ìṣẹ̀ṣe is a living expression of our traditions and a celebration of Yoruba spirituality as an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape,” Aroyewun said.
He charged residents on the need to embrace culture and traditional values.
”On this day of days, let us continue to demonstrate that our traditions are not relics of a bygone era, they are blueprints for harmonious living, for respect, for dignity, and for the prosperity we all desire.
”I urge every son and daughter of Igbogbo/Baiyeku to participate fully in today’s celebrations. Let the drums echo our pride. Let our processions testify to our unity.
”Let our prayers from all faiths rise together to heaven, for heritage knows no denomination.
”To our people at home and in the diaspora, to our youth who carry our traditions into the future, to our elders whose wisdom guides us, this day belongs to all of us.
”Happy Isese Day 2026. May our culture flourish. May our unity strengthen. May the peace and progress of Igbogbo/Baiyeku continue without cease.
“Isese l’agba! Isese l’agba gbogbo wa!”
