Kakalistiq.com reports that the Oloja-Elect of Lagos, Olojo Abiola Kosoko, has reiterated the significance of preserving Islamic heritage and fostering peace in Epe town, Lagos State. Speaking in an exclusive interview during the Epe Kayokayo Festival’s Quranic recitation and Quiz competition at the First Epe Central Mosque, Oke-Balogun on Saturday, July 20, 2024, Kosoko highlighted the festival’s importance in promoting unity and cultural heritage.
Kosoko underscored the historical roots of the festival, noting, “The Muslim followers of King Kosoko transformed the embankment into an Islamic process of cleansing and remembrance, which has been celebrated for 175 years. This makes it a major celebration that no other in Lagos State can equal.”
Reflecting on the day’s events, he added, “What we’re doing today is a basic process that will enhance the Kayokayo festival from the Quranic point of view. It’s a way to continue to make that foundation a reality forever. I’m so happy seeing the young ones reciting the Quran today, and it excites me even more. It’s ideal and important for us to continue to bring in things that will be beneficial to the young ones, to see as an attraction to be involved in all these processes.”
Kosoko emphasized the importance of the Quranic recitation and Quiz competition in maintaining Islamic traditions. “The Quranic recitation and Quiz competition is to enhance and support that religion that is being left behind to keep Epe together. It still supports the young ones in obtaining and maintaining the Islamic faith and beliefs acquired. I am happy about the way the Quranic tradition is being maintained in Epe without any struggle. I’m excited that Epe transformed from a mere settlement in the district of Lagos into a local government that determines what happens in Lagos as a whole,” he said.
On the subject of unity and peacebuilding initiatives, Kosoko addressed the land disputes that have occasionally caused friction in the town. “You see, we are the same, there’s no difference. The Eko Epe and Ijebu Epe marry each other; that bond is there. If you go deeper, you’ll understand that Epe itself is a diverse community that has the selection of everybody from all over Africa in Nigeria who coexisted together before Nigeria was founded.”
He continued, “There’s a lot that has brought us together, but it’s just one thing that is splitting us: land. Until we fix that part, realize who we are, and reflect on the primary objective of our continual existence, which is love, nothing will change. Let’s put aside these issues and move together, and with that, Epe will continue to be a better place to be.”
Kosoko also highlighted the historical significance of the Kayokayo Festival, tracing its origins to King Kosoko’s 1852 voyage to a deserted fishing port later named Epe. “At the dawn of arrival, the torch was used, and that’s what is being celebrated.”
Besides promoting unity, Kosoko noted that the festival enhances the socioeconomic standing of the town. He emphasized exploring opportunities in tourism development and economic empowerment through tourism, asserting that the festival’s heritage could be a catalyst for growth and prosperity in Epe.
The Epe Kayokayo Festival stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and enduring commitment to cultural and religious traditions, fostering a spirit of unity and progress for future generations.
