…Donates Cash, Gifts To Traditional Worshippers.
Emmanuel Ikpeama
Ikeja— The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has urged residents to embrace peace, unity and mutual respect as he joined traditional worshippers in Ikeja to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration.
The event held at the council secretariat brought together traditionalists, members of the legislative arm led by the Leader of the House, Hon. Ogunseye Adisa, APC Chairman in Ikeja LGA, Alhaji Adekunle Dally-Adeokun, supervisors, and other community stakeholders. 
Speaking at the celebration, AKOD commended the Lagos State Government for officially declaring August 20 as Isese Day, describing it as a long-awaited recognition of Yoruba culture and tradition.
“First, we should thank the Governor for declaring August 20 as Isese Day, which our forefathers have been advocating for. It is our culture.
“Each community has its deities that they believe in, and we support them as they celebrate their day with cash and gift items,” AKOD said.
He noted that the day provides an opportunity for traditional worshippers to offer prayers for the peace and progress of Nigeria, Lagos State, Ikeja and their respective communities.
“Even though we have agreed that Nigeria is a secular state, we believe in one God. We are promoting our culture while also promoting the fact that we are serving one God and promoting peace,” he added.
The Chairman urged traditional worshippers and residents across Ikeja to use the occasion to pray for peace, the wellbeing of children and harmonious living among the diverse communities.
He stressed that differences in beliefs and practices should not divide residents, but rather serve as a basis for respect and understanding.
“As we celebrate our culture, let us also uphold the values of tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence. That is the only way we can build a stronger and more prosperous Ikeja,” AKOD said.
The Regent of the Olu of Ikeja, Adekunle Apena, also commended the local government for bringing traditionalists together to mark the day.
He explained that Isese Day provides adherents the opportunity to perform traditional rites in accordance with their beliefs and customs.
Apena urged worshippers to continue preserving their culture while conducting themselves responsibly and respecting the rights of those who practice other religions.
“I urge our people to remain law-abiding and ensure that our celebrations do not infringe on the rights of others,” he said.
Investigator news reports that the celebration featured traditional rites, prayers and cultural displays. Participants offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor of Lagos State, Ikeja Local Government and the nation.
As part of the council’s support, AKOD presented cash and gift items to representatives of traditional groups to aid the celebration.
