As Kayokayo 2025 continues to shine a light on the rich cultural heritage of Epe Kingdom, the recent lighting of the sixth Etufu torch by the Isale Agoro quarter has added a powerful chapter to this historic festival.
EpeInsights reports that this event, deeply rooted in tradition, serves as both a celebration of the past and a beacon for the future, further cementing the legacy of King Kosoko and the unity of the Epe people.
The Etufu torch, an ancient and sacred emblem, commemorates the arrival of King Kosoko in Epe in 1851. After being exiled from Lagos, King Kosoko and his followers found refuge in Epe, where the torch was first carried under the cover of night as a sign of hope and new beginnings.
To this day, the ceremonial lighting of the Etufu torch remains one of the most anticipated and meaningful highlights of the Kayokayo Festival.
The lighting ceremonies began on July 19, 2025, with a succession of different quarters; including Bado Isale, Oke Iposu/Lagbade, Oke Balogun, Bado Oke, and Oke Oba/Popo Oba, each playing their part in passing the torch of tradition and unity.
The torch’s journey culminates with the Kosoko Royal Family’s lighting of the final Etufu, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the dynasty.
On July 24, the honour and responsibility of lighting the sixth Etufu fell to the people of Isale Agoro, a quarter renowned for its deep historical ties and vibrant cultural spirit. This event marked the penultimate torch-lighting ceremony before the grand finale.
During the ceremony, Oloye Agoro, a revered traditional leader, recounted the historic support Isale Agoro gave to King Kosoko during his arrival and settlement in Epe, highlighting the quarter’s longstanding loyalty and commitment to preserving the kingdom’s traditions.
High Chief Muyideen Shobaloju, addressing the gathering, praised the cultural significance of the torch-lighting. He reflected,
“Every time we light the Etufu, we relive the courage and resilience of our ancestors. It’s a reminder that we must remain united to keep our legacy alive.”
He also commended the efforts of Barrister Bayo Okulu, the festival coordinator, for injecting fresh energy and organizational improvements into Kayokayo 2025:
“We are grateful to Barrister Okulu for his tireless effort in upgrading this year’s festival. His leadership has brought about new energy and direction.”
Bridging tradition with faith, Dr. Yusuf C.O. offered a spiritual perspective, drawing parallels between the Etufu torch and Islamic teachings:
“In Islam, light is a symbol of guidance. Just as Prophet Nuh (A.S.) found hope through divine illumination, this torch represents our path toward unity, peace, and development.”
Festival coordinator Barrister Bayo Okulu highlighted how this year’s celebration was intentionally designed to be more inclusive and community-driven:
“This year’s celebration was carefully planned to be more inclusive, engaging, and spiritually significant. I want to thank all the participating wards and the entire Epe community for embracing this vision. We are preserving history while building a stronger community.”
The ongoing torch-lighting ceremonies are not just symbolic acts but powerful rituals that connect Epe’s past with its present and future. As the torch passes from one quarter to another, and from one generation to the next, it reinforces a collective identity centered on heritage, unity and hope.
With the grand finale fast approaching, the people of Epe eagerly await the Kosoko Royal Family’s lighting of the seventh and final Etufu torch, a moment that promises to be both deeply emotional and historically significant.
