Lagos State Government Declares August 21 a Work-Free Day to Mark 2023 Isese Day CelebrationIn a move that underscores its commitment to honoring indigenous culture and tradition, the Lagos State Government has announced Monday, August 21, as a work-free day for all public servants in the state. This proclamation is in commemoration of the 2023 Isese Day celebration, slated for Sunday, August 20.A circular dated August 18, exclusively obtained by The PUNCH, reveals this development. The circular, bearing the signature of the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, emphasizes Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to upholding heritage while encouraging the observance of local customs.”Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s gracious declaration designates Monday, 21st August 2023, as a day of respite for public servants within the state. This step resonates with the administration’s ongoing support for our intrinsic cultural and traditional values, serving to preserve our esteemed heritage,” the circular elaborates.Work, as specified in the communication, is set to recommence on Tuesday, 22nd August, promptly at 8 am. The Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs had previously urged the government, as reported by The PUNCH, to officially acknowledge August 20 as the Isese Day holiday within the state. These traditional leaders, during their tenure inauguration event, articulated the significance of recognizing August 20 as Isese Day, aligning it with the principles of democracy and religious freedom.Oba Saheed Elegushi, representing the council, expressed, “The call for this recognition has been on the governor’s desk for quite some time.” This collective appeal underlines the growing importance of acknowledging and embracing cultural observances within the framework of contemporary governance.