Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has been renamed by traditionalists in the State as ‘Orisaseyi Omimakinde’.
At the celebration of 2025 Isese Day held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the traditionalists, clad in their distinctive white attires and regalia, marked the occasion with reverence and joy, as they celebrated the Yoruba tradition and paid tributes to Governor Makinde.
The Isese Day, also known as the ‘Traditional Worshipers Day’, is an annual celebration to showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditional beliefs of the Yoruba people.
August 20 has been set aside for traditionalists to gather for prayers, perform rituals, and express gratitude to the deities (Orishas) that are central to their faith.
This year’s Isese Day celebration in Oyo State was particularly special, as the traditionalists publicly acknowledged and appreciated Governor Makinde for his unwavering support and commitment to promoting and preserving their traditional practices.
In a symbolic gesture, the traditionalists jointly christened the governor as “Orisaseyi Omimakinde,” which translates to “the traditionalists’ oracle of prosperity.”
The traditionalists offered prayers and libations to the ‘Orishas’, seeking blessings and guidance for the prosperity and unity of Oyo State.
In honouring Governor Makinde with the new name “Orisaseyi Omimakinde,” the traditionalists recognised his support and advocacy for their cause, as well as his commitment to promoting cultural diversity and religious harmony in Oyo State.
The Governor assured Isese adherents that his administration will continue to promote and support them to preserve the cultural and traditional heritage of the people.
Governor Makinde spoke through the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun.
The governor commended all the devotees for their peaceful co-existence, tolerance and support to the government, and for upholding the cultural heritage through the preservation of traditional beliefs across the geopolitical zones of the state.
Makinde urged them to continue to make traditional festivals and beliefs attractive to the young ones in order to preserve the heritage
