The ancient town of Epe was awash with culture, colour and youthful energy on Wednesday, July 23, as local youths staged a high-spirited rally to commemorate this year’s Kayokayo Festival, paying homage to two historical icons: King Kosoko of Lagos and the late Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale Bamgbopa Eshilokun I.
EpeInsights reports that the rally, organised by the Epe Youth Forum, drew large numbers of residents and onlookers who joined a street procession led by the Forum’s President, Comrade Giwa Murtala Omotola, and Deputy President, Engineer Gbajumo Ahmed.
With rhythmic drumming, cultural chants, and traditional dance steps, the procession celebrated not only history, but also the strength of community and the enduring role of young people in cultural preservation.
Clad in colourful aso-ebi, the participants were joined by “epo” masquerades, known for their entertaining and symbolic role in local traditions.
The rally was described by organisers as a grassroots version of Youth Day redefined in cultural terms.
“This is more than just a parade,” said Giwa, who also serves as Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Vocational and Technical Education.
“It’s a deliberate celebration of our roots. Our unity is our strength. When we move as one, we build a stronger Epe.”
The rally held extra significance this year, coming shortly after the passing of Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale Bamgbopa, a monarch remembered for his progressive vision and close ties to the youth.
Participants began their march from Isale-Agoro, the late king’s palace, and made stops at key community landmarks including Araromi, Oke-Owode, Ita-Opo, Recreation Ground, Kasali Oluwo, Ikesan, Oke-Iposu, and the historic King Kosoko Embarkation Centre at Marina.
In a moment of reverence, the group also visited the family home of the late monarch to honour his memory and greet Alhaja Aribike Adewale, former Olori Olu-Epe.
The symbolic trek further included a visit to the palace of HRM Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, the Oloja of Epe Land, who was unavoidably absent but acknowledged the visit through palace aides.
The event attracted notable young leaders and public servants, including: Mr. Kaka Babatunde, Senior Legislative Aide to Rep. Wale Raji on Youth & Media, Comrade Ogunbanwo Ibrahim, State Treasurer, NYCN Lagos, Senator Saheed Rahmon, Nigerian Youth Parliament, Lagos East, Hon. Odunare Mahruf, Deputy Speaker, Lagos State Youth Parliament and Ambassador Kadri Abiola, President of LEYOSA (League of Epe Division Youths and Students Association).
Beyond the cultural fanfare, the rally was a pointed reminder of the importance of unity in a community with a deep historical narrative. Giwa urged stakeholders to rally behind the youth and uphold Epe’s values of respect, peace, and purpose-driven leadership.
“Even in the face of royal succession challenges, we must draw lessons from history and stay focused. Epe’s destiny is tied to our ability to stand together,” he said.
As the town gears up for the grand finale of the Kayokayo Festival, the message from its younger generation rang clear: Epe’s legacy is not only remembered, but actively lived and led by its vibrant youth.
