The 175th Epe Kayokayo Festival continued in grand style as Oke-Iposu/Lagbade Ward hosted the symbolic Etufu Lighting Exercise at the Marina Waterfront, celebrating Epe’s enduring history, culture, and communal heritage.
Epe Insights reports that the colourful ceremony attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, community leaders, residents, youths, and visitors who gathered to witness another memorable chapter in one of Epe’s most cherished cultural traditions.
The Etufu Lighting Exercise remains a defining feature of the annual Kayokayo Festival, symbolising unity, continuity, and the enduring legacy of the Epe people.
Members of Oke-Iposu/Lagbade Ward proudly carried the sacred responsibility of lighting the symbolic flame, continuing a tradition that has been preserved across generations.
The Etufu torch commemorates the historic arrival of King Kosoko in Epe in 1851, an event that continues to shape the identity and cultural heritage of the ancient town.
This year’s celebration marks the 175th anniversary of that historic journey, making every festival activity a significant reminder of Epe’s remarkable past.
The Marina Waterfront was transformed into a vibrant centre of cultural celebration as participants gathered in colourful traditional attire to honour the occasion.
Traditional music, cultural processions, songs, and prayers created an atmosphere of unity and pride throughout the evening.
Community leaders described the Etufu flame as a powerful symbol of hope, continuity, and the shared values that have united the people of Epe for generations.
They encouraged younger generations to remain connected to their roots by learning about the history and traditions associated with the Kayokayo Festival.
Residents commended Oke-Iposu/Lagbade Ward for successfully hosting the lighting ceremony and preserving one of the community’s most treasured customs.
Many participants noted that the Etufu procession continues to strengthen community bonds while promoting peace, respect, and collective identity.
Visitors who attended the ceremony expressed admiration for the organisation, cultural richness, and historical significance of the annual celebration.
The Kayokayo Festival continues to attract increasing attention as one of Lagos State’s most respected cultural events, drawing participants from within and outside Epe.
Stakeholders emphasised that preserving cultural heritage requires continuous participation and the active involvement of every generation.
They noted that the annual Etufu Lighting Exercise serves as a living classroom where history is celebrated and passed on through practical cultural experiences.
The symbolic journey of the Etufu flame across the various wards reflects the unity of the Epe community and the collective responsibility of preserving its heritage.
Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the traditions that have kept the Kayokayo Festival vibrant for more than a century.
The celebration also reinforces the importance of culture as a tool for promoting tourism, strengthening community relationships, and preserving historical identity.
As the week-long festival progresses, additional cultural, religious, and community activities will continue to showcase the unique customs that distinguish Epe as one of Lagos State’s foremost cultural destinations.
Residents expressed pride in seeing the Etufu torch continue its symbolic journey from ward to ward, inspiring unity and strengthening appreciation for the town’s remarkable history.
The continued participation of families, traditional institutions, youth groups, and community stakeholders reflects the collective commitment to preserving the customs handed down by previous generations.
For many attendees, the lighting of the Etufu flame represents more than a ceremonial event; it is a celebration of resilience, identity, and the enduring values that define the Epe people.
The ceremony once again demonstrated that the strength of Epe lies not only in its history but also in the determination of its people to preserve and celebrate that history together.
As Oke-Iposu/Lagbade Ward concluded its memorable Etufu Lighting Exercise, the symbolic flame continued to shine brightly across the Marina Waterfront, reminding residents that the legacy of King Kosoko and the rich heritage of Epe remain alive in the hearts of its people.
