Epe came alive with colours, drums, and prayers as the newly installed Iyalaje of Epe Land, Chief (Mrs.) Ajimo Omodudu, celebrated her first-ever Aje Festival at the Epe and Oluwo Model Fish Market, marking a vibrant display of tradition and blessings for prosperity across the division.
EpeInsights reports that the festival, dedicated to Aje , the Yoruba goddess of wealth attracted a large gathering of traditional leaders, market executives, traders, and residents who came together to invoke peace, progress, and abundance for all business owners in Epe and beyond.
The event featured prayers, chants, and traditional rites led by the Iyalaje and market elders, with traders temporarily leaving their stalls to join the symbolic procession. Offerings were made to honour Aje, as participants prayed for economic growth and harmony within the trading community.
Speaking on the spiritual and economic significance of the festival, the Agbon of Epe Land, High Chief Yesiru Dada, emphasized the deep connection between commerce and culture.
“Aje represents wealth, and it must be honoured for prosperity to flourish. This market is a hub of daily trade, and observing this festival ensures continued peace and success among traders,” he explained.
He commended the market community for their unity and applauded the new Iyalaje’s leadership, noting that her acceptance marks a new dawn for women traders in Epe.
Several market leaders, including Chief Yekini Nureni, Babaloja General of Epe Division; Chief Saliu Olajumoke, Iyaloja of Epe Ero Market; Mrs. Adewunmi Ibrahim, Iyaloja of Oloja Estate Market; Mrs. Moriam Alugbin, Iyaloja of Ladaba Kingdom; and Alhaja Olamiji Muritala, Iyaloja of Papa Market, congratulated Chief Omodudu on her successful installation and maiden festival.
They collectively pledged their full support for her leadership and vision to promote peace, unity, and business prosperity across all markets in Epe Division.
“The Iyalaje has our complete backing. We will continue to work together to sustain harmony and economic growth across our markets,” one of the leaders said.
The Aje Festival was marked by rhythmic drumming, vibrant dancing, and colourful traditional attire — reflecting Epe’s rich heritage and communal strength. The celebration, according to participants, reaffirmed the town’s cultural pride and its spiritual commitment to wealth and wellbeing.
For the Iyalaje, Chief (Mrs.) Ajimo Omodudu, the maiden festival was not only a spiritual exercise but also a reaffirmation of Epe’s identity as a prosperous and united community.
“This festival reminds us that wealth and peace come through gratitude, hard work, and unity. Epe is blessed, and together we will continue to grow in abundance,” she said.
With blessings invoked for traders and residents alike, Epe Land once again affirmed its standing as a thriving centre of commerce, culture, and community spirit.
