The Epe Kingdom, the fish basket of Lagos, witnessed an electrifying start to the Kayokayo 2023 celebration as the Royal Palace of HRM Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, the esteemed Olu-Epe, hosted an auspicious Press Conference today, Friday, July 28, 2023.
In his opening address, Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, the highly revered First-Class monarch, graced the event with his royal blessings and heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty for granting him the privilege to witness this vibrant sociocultural, economic, and religious festival once again.
Kaklistiq.com reports that the monarch emphasized that historical events leading to the celebration of Kayokayo were a true testament to the richness of the Epe Kingdom’s culture and heritage, a treasure that cannot be replicated elsewhere except in the same divine manner as the Prophet Nuuh.
Drawing attention to the symbolic “etufu” torch, Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale emphasized its significance as a beacon of illumination, growth, and development across the entire Epe kingdom. The monarch also took a moment to honor the memory of public-spirited sons and daughters of the community who had dedicated themselves to promoting the festival but have now departed this world.
Alaiyeluwa especially acknowledged Alhaji Ibishomi for his exceptional contributions, instrumental in the growth of the festival, and hailed Otunba TJ Abass for his remarkable efforts in elevating the festival to international standards. While urging patience for steady growth year after year, the Olu-Epe called for unity in preserving the essence of Kayokayo.
High Chief Kadri Odedeogboro, the Balogun of Epe Kingdom, narrated the historic journey of King Kosoko and his loyal warriors and chiefs, who settled in strategic areas of the uninhabited environment. He particularly highlighted the successful propagation of Islam in Epe, credited to the arrival of Muslim Clerics, led by King Kosoko himself who doubles as their grand patron and the then Chief Imam of Lagos, who left an indelible mark on the community.
High Chief Olamilakan Ajiborisha, the Otun-Seriki of Epe Kingdom, offered heartfelt prayers for a successful and blessed celebration, uniting the people of Epe in joy and prosperity throughout the festival.
Similarly, the Sarumi of Epe Kingdom, High Chief Muhideen Shobaloju, expressed his sincere prayers, invoking divine blessings for peace, harmony, and abundance during the festive week.
Otunba TJ Abass, the visionary Coordinator of the Festival, presented a detailed overview of the one-weeklong event, exciting the audience with the promise of an extraordinary experience. He fervently called on donors to continue their generous support, as hundreds of tourists, fun-seekers, and Epe indigenes prepare to witness this grand celebration.
Addressing the social, economic, and religious significance of Kayokayo, Otunba TJ Abass emphasized the festival’s aim to ascend to greater global standards as a captivating tourist attraction. With an eye on the future, Otunba TJ Abass stressed the need for inaugurating the Board of Trustees. Composed of past presidents, coordinators, and esteemed members, this body will offer invaluable guidance and financial support to ensure the festival’s enduring sustainability for generations to come.
