Isese Day 2024: Honouring Yoruba heritage and tradition in Lagos
For local traditional worshippers in South-West Nigeria, Isese Day is a time to honour their deities and ancestors.
Christians celebrate Christmas and Easter to mark the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ, while Muslims observe Eid. For local traditional worshippers in South-West Nigeria, Isese Day is a time to honour their deities and ancestors.
Isese Day is celebrated annually on August 20 in Lagos, Osun, Kwara, Edo, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti, and Kogi states.
History of Isese Day
"Isese" refers to the traditional beliefs and practices of the Yoruba people, also known as Ifa or Orisha worship.
The festival acknowledges the Orishas, deities associated with love, wealth, health, and wisdom.
The Yoruba believe their ancestors and Orishas play a crucial role in their lives by providing guidance, protection, and blessings.
During Isese Day, worshippers make offerings and perform rituals to express gratitude and seek continued blessings.
Chants and songs are part of the celebration as worshippers travel to offer sacrifices. The greeting among worshippers is "Isese l'agba," with the response being "Isese l'agba gb…
