The 175th Epe Kayokayo Festival gathered more momentum as Isale-Agoro Ward proudly hosted the symbolic Etufu Lighting Exercise at the Marina Waterfront, celebrating Epe’s rich cultural heritage and historic legacy.
Epe Insights reports that the colourful ceremony attracted residents, traditional leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors who assembled to witness another remarkable chapter of the annual Kayokayo Festival, which commemorates the historic arrival of King Kosoko in Epe.
The Etufu Lighting Exercise remains one of the festival’s most treasured traditions, symbolising unity, faith, resilience, and the enduring heritage of the Epe people.
As custodians of the day’s celebration, members of Isale-Agoro Ward proudly lit the sacred Etufu flame, continuing a tradition that has united generations for nearly two centuries.
The symbolic torch once again illuminated the Marina Waterfront, creating a colourful atmosphere filled with cultural pride and communal celebration.
The Etufu flame represents the historic journey of King Kosoko, whose arrival in Epe in 1851 remains one of the defining moments in the town’s history.
This year’s celebration marks the 175th anniversary of that historic event, making every activity of the Kayokayo Festival even more significant.
Residents described the lighting ceremony as an opportunity to reflect on Epe’s remarkable history while celebrating the values that continue to unite the community.
Traditional leaders encouraged younger generations to preserve the customs, history, and cultural identity that have distinguished Epe for decades.
They noted that the Kayokayo Festival continues to strengthen community bonds while promoting cultural education among the youth.
The Marina Waterfront once again came alive with excitement as families, visitors, and community members gathered to witness the symbolic lighting of the Etufu torch.
Songs, prayers, cultural displays, and moments of reflection added colour and meaning to the evening’s celebration.
Many participants described the event as one of the most inspiring highlights of the ongoing Kayokayo Festival.
Community stakeholders commended Isale-Agoro Ward for successfully hosting the ceremony and preserving one of Epe’s most cherished cultural traditions.
They observed that the Etufu Lighting Exercise continues to attract growing interest from residents and visitors eager to experience Epe’s unique heritage.
Beyond its historical importance, the ceremony also promotes unity, peaceful coexistence, and a shared sense of identity among the people of Epe.
The Kayokayo Festival has remained an important platform for celebrating history, promoting tourism, and preserving the customs passed down through generations.
Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the festival’s cultural values while encouraging wider participation from both residents and visitors.
The symbolic journey of the Etufu torch through the various wards reflects the collective responsibility of preserving Epe’s rich traditions and historical legacy.
As the week-long festival continues, more religious, cultural, and community-based activities are expected to showcase the unique heritage that has made Epe one of Lagos State’s most celebrated cultural destinations.
The lighting of the Etufu by Isale-Agoro Ward once again demonstrated that the spirit of unity, culture, and history remains vibrant in Epe, where the timeless flame continues to guide the community and inspire future generations.
