In a grand celebration of tradition and spirituality, the Epe Kayokayo Festival Annual Prayers took place at the Royal Palace of the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Lagos.
The event, held on Sunday, July 30th, 2023, was led by the esteemed Grand Chief Imam of Epe Division, Sheikh Abdulrahman Abiola Sadala, and was graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, and his wife, Olori Aribike Adewale.
The Olu-Epe expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the gift of life. He emphasized the significance of the prayer session, commemorating the arrival of the King Kosoko voyage in 1851. He conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Ulamas for their unwavering commitment and dedication to the development of the community. Furthermore, he acknowledged and thanked the Kayokayo Planning Committee, with Otunba TJ Abass at the helm, for their tireless efforts.
During the prayer session, Kakalistiq.com reports that the Grand Chief Imam and his team of Ulamas exalted Almighty Allah and offered solemn prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the people. The spiritual atmosphere was heightened with gratitude for the gift of life and appreciation for the collective efforts made for the community’s development.
In an exclusive interview with some of the high chiefs present at the event, they shared their thoughts on the significance of the Epe Kayokayo Festival Annual Prayers.
According to High Chief Kadiri Odedeogboro, Balogun of Epe Kingdom, the prayers hold immense importance in the community. He added that it is a time when the community comes together to seek divine blessings and guidance for the growth and prosperity of their beloved town.
“I am honored to witness the unity and devotion displayed by our people during this event. It reinforces our cultural heritage and reminds us of our shared history with King Kosoko’s voyage. The prayers offered by the Grand Chief Imam and the Ulamas are a powerful symbol of our faith and commitment to the betterment of our society,” he said.
On his part, High Chief Tajudeen Ajiborisha, the Otun-Seriki of Epe Kingdom said he takes immense pride in participating in the Epe Kayokayo Festival Annual Prayers, stressing that it brings the community closer.
“It is a time of reflection and introspection, where we seek divine guidance for the development and progress of Epe. The presence of our respected dignitaries and the commitment shown by the Kayokayo Planning Committee reflect our collective dedication to the betterment of our town and its people,” he said.
In the same vein, High Chief Tajudeen Agoro, the Seriki of Epe Kingdom averred that the Epe Kayokayo Festival Annual Prayers represent a beautiful blend of our cultural heritage and religious beliefs.
“We come together, putting aside our differences, to seek divine intervention and blessings for the progress and well-being of our town. It is heartwarming to see the support and participation of our esteemed Olu-Epe, his wife, and other respected dignitaries, which reaffirms their commitment to the prosperity of Epe,” he said.