- Oke-Balogun descendants lit the third Etufu as part of Kayokayo Festival 2025.
- Mr. Kola Seriki and Dr. Sanuth reflected on the legacy of King Kosoko and the significance of the Islamic New Year.
- Barrister Bayo Okulu introduced the Street Feeding Initiative at Ogunmodede Club to connect directly with residents.
In a vibrant display of culture and tradition, the Oke-Balogun descendants lit the third sacred Etufu on Thursday evening at the Kosoko Embankment Ground, Marina Waterfront, Epe, as part of the ongoing Kayokayo Festival 2025 celebrations.
Ekohotblog reports that the Etufu, a symbolic ancestral flame, is a core ritual of the festival, representing the legacy of King Kosoko’s arrival in Epe after his exile from Lagos in 1851, and the ushering in of a new Islamic year.
Speaking during the ceremony, Chairman of the Oke-Balogun Descendants Group, Mr. Kola Seriki, emphasized the dual importance of the Etufu tradition.
“This flame reminds us of our roots. It marks not just the beginning of a new Islamic year, but also the strength, courage, and return of King Kosoko who settled in Epe after the 1851 bombardment of Lagos,” he said. “For us descendants, it is a spiritual reconnection and a statement of identity.”
Dr. Sanuth, a respected historian and cultural enthusiast, also highlighted the importance of preserving Epe’s heritage through active participation in the Kayokayo Festival.
“It is not enough to read about our culture, we must live it. This festival brings our history to life and educates the younger generation about where they come from,” he noted.
Adding a modern touch to this year’s edition, Barrister Bayo Okulu and the organizers has introduced community-centered initiatives such as the Street Feeding Program, which took will take place at the Ogunmodede Club on Thursday.
“This innovation is commendable. We’re not just celebrating with dances and prayers; we’re reaching the people where they are,” Okulu said. “The street feeding allows us to share food, laughter, and unity values that Kayokayo embodies.”
The event drew attendees from across Lagos and neighboring towns, many of whom expressed joy at witnessing a fusion of deep tradition and thoughtful innovation.
From cultural performances to prayer sessions, and now community outreach, the Kayokayo Festival continues to evolve while remaining anchored in the values of remembrance, renewal, and unity.
