As the 2025 Isese Day was marked in Ogun State, a respected traditional leader, Chief Ayedun Ifadare Owodunni, has called on all Yoruba descendants at home and abroad to reconnect with their cultural and spiritual heritage.

Chief Owodunni, who is the founder of the Agbotifayo Empire and widely known as Agbotifayo, appealed for the annual Ifa sacrifice in Isara Remo on Wednesday. He warned that abandoning culture and tradition is like “a river disconnected from its source.”

The Chief Priest stressed that every Yoruba family has traditional deities that have supported them over time, whether they acknowledge it or not. According to him, ignoring these roots weakens identity and spiritual connection.

“There is no Yoruba man or woman who doesn’t have one or two traditional deities in their family,” he said. “Abandoning our culture and tradition is like a river disconnected from its source.”

Chief Owodunni also commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for declaring August 20 as a public holiday in Ogun State to mark Isese Day, saying it was long overdue recognition for traditional religion.

He noted that while Islam and Christianity had enjoyed official holidays for decades, African traditional worshippers were marginalized until now. “We appreciate Governor Dapo Abiodun for giving us the holiday to celebrate Isese Day. The prayers of our forefathers have been answered,” he said.

The priest urged the state government to go further by strengthening the institutionalization of traditional worship for future generations.

Concluding his message, Chief Owodunni offered prayers for peace, progress, and development in Ogun State and across Nigeria.