In a spectacular display of community spirit, culture and generosity, the people of Epe came together on Thursday for a full-day Street Feeding Celebration at the Ogunmodede Club House.
EpeInsights reports that this festive event was one of the shining highlights of the 2025 Kayokayo Festival, masterfully coordinated by Barrister Bayo Okulu to foster unity and celebrate Epe’s rich heritage.
From dawn till dusk, the aroma of traditional Yoruba dishes filled the air as volunteers served hundreds of residents, young and old, from all walks of life. The feast kicked off with a hearty breakfast featuring staples like ekuru and egbo, warming the hearts of early attendees.
As the day unfolded, the tables remained laden with a sumptuous array of delicacies including ikokore (water yam pottage), pounded yam served with assorted soups, ofada rice rich in flavor, amala accompanied by ewedu and gbegiri, as well as eba, a crowd favorite made from cassava flour.
This feast wasn’t just about food; it was a cultural tapestry, a way to preserve and share Yoruba culinary traditions across generations.
Volunteers, dressed in vibrant festival attire, worked tirelessly to ensure that every plate was filled and every guest felt welcomed. Children, elders, and families gathered side by side, united by the simple joy of sharing a meal.
Food was only part of the day’s excitement. Ogunmodede Club House transformed into a lively hub of entertainment and friendly competition. Young and old eagerly joined in traditional games such as ayo a popular Yoruba mancala game and more modern favorites like chess and ludo. Enthusiasts of snooker and table tennis took the opportunity to showcase their skills, drawing cheers from the crowd.
For the children, the festival was nothing short of magical. A giant bouncing castle towered in the corner, a beacon of laughter and delight. Face painters brought colorful designs to life on little faces, while rhythmic music played in the background, encouraging spontaneous dance sessions that had kids moving with pure joy.
No festival is complete without treats, and this celebration offered plenty. Refreshment stalls dotted the venue, serving cold ice cream, sweet cotton candy and freshly popped popcorn. Traditional beverages like sobo (hibiscus drink), tiger nut juice, palm wine and a refreshing coconut cocktail were in abundant supply, quenching thirsts and adding a local flavor that delighted all palates.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Barrister Bayo Okulu emphasized that this was far more than a day of fun and food. “This is the heart of Kayokayo—sharing love, feeding the people, and celebrating our heritage together. We want everyone in Epe to know that they are seen, valued, and part of a community that cares deeply for its people.”
The Street Feeding Celebration perfectly aligns with the broader goals of the Kayokayo Festival, which aims to strengthen community bonds, honor the history and culture of Epe, and uplift residents, especially those facing hardship.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the festival’s energy showed no signs of fading. Music played on, blending traditional drumming with contemporary beats, while children danced freely with balloons and smiles stretching from ear to ear. Elders relaxed under shaded canopies, exchanging stories and laughter, feeling nourished not just in body but in spirit.
The Ogunmodede Club House Street Feeding Celebration wasn’t just an event, it was a powerful testament to the generosity, resilience and unity of the Epe community.
It left everyone inspired and eagerly anticipating next year’s festivities.
